Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Description:

This hearty and comforting Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines the savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the coziness of a soup. Creamy cheese, tender macaroni, and ground beef come together in a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for chilly days and family dinners.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8):

Main Ingredients:

• Ground beef: 1 lb
• Onion: 1 medium, finely diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Carrots: 2 medium, diced
• Celery: 2 stalks, diced
• Beef broth: 6 cups
• Macaroni pasta: 1½ cups, uncooked
• Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz), with juice
• Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded
• Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened
• Milk: 1 cup
• Flour: 2 tbsp
• Butter: 2 tbsp
• Salt: 1½ tsp
• Pepper: 1 tsp
• Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp

Optional Ingredients:

• Hot sauce: 1 tsp (for a spicy kick)
• Pickles: Chopped, for garnish
• Parsley: Chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Remove any excess grease.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef, cooking until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Build the Base

1. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

1. Stir in the uncooked macaroni and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Pour the cheese sauce into the soup and mix until fully combined. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
2. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or hot sauce to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped pickles, parsley, or extra shredded cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Success:

• Consistency: For a thicker soup, reduce the broth by 1 cup or add more flour to the cheese sauce.
• Cheese Melting: Use freshly shredded cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. Pre-shredded cheese may result in a grainy texture.
• Make-Ahead: This soup reheats well but may thicken as it sits. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

Recommendations:

• Serve With: Crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
• Variation: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use gluten-free pasta and flour for dietary needs.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 8 Servings):

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 720 mg

This Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup delivers all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, one-pot dish. It’s bound to become a family favorite!