One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step-by-Step Method:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. As the beef cooks, season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, remove any excess grease from the pot. Add the diced onion to the same pot, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and slightly softened—about 4-5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic flavor.
Step 3: Add the Flour to Thicken the Soup
Sprinkle the tablespoon of flour over the meat and onion mixture. Stir well to combine, and cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help create a base that thickens the soup as it simmers. The flour will give the soup a creamy, velvety texture without needing heavy cream or excessive amounts of cheese.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Milk
Now it’s time to add the liquid! Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. The flour will help thicken the soup as it heats up. Stir occasionally to ensure that no lumps form.
Step 5: Cook the Macaroni
Once the soup is simmering, add the uncooked macaroni to the pot. Stir well, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Let the soup simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 6: Add the Cheddar Cheese
As the macaroni softens, it’s time to add the star ingredient: cheese! Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup. This will make the soup creamy and cheesy, creating that comforting “cheeseburger” flavor we all love.
Step 7: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Now, add the diced tomatoes and season the soup with dried oregano, basil (if using), and additional salt and pepper to taste. The tomatoes will add a touch of acidity and sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 8: Optional Garnishes
For that extra burger-like touch, you can add some chopped pickles and crispy bacon bits on top of the soup just before serving. The pickles give a slight tang and crunch, while the bacon bits bring an irresistible smokiness and crispiness.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup has thickened to your desired consistency and the flavors have fully come together, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and enjoy the delicious cheeseburger-inspired comfort in every spoonful.
Additional Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use lentils for protein.
- Spicy Twist: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Creamier Version: You can increase the milk or add a splash of cream for an even richer soup.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for varied flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:
- Comforting and Hearty: The combination of beef, pasta, cheese, and broth creates a filling and warming dish perfect for colder weather.
- Easy Cleanup: Made in just one pot, this soup means less time spent cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.
- Customizable: Whether you want to make it spicier, vegetarian, or add more veggies, this recipe allows plenty of flexibility.
- Quick to Make: With minimal prep time and only about 30 minutes of cooking, this soup is perfect for busy nights.
- Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of cheeseburger and macaroni make it a hit with children and picky eaters.
