Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) beef or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups (475ml) milk
- 2 cups (200g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley, crumbled bacon, extra cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3 minutes). Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Season and Add Liquids:
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and milk, stirring to combine.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the uncooked macaroni and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Make It Cheesy:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- If you want a creamier texture, add the heavy cream and stir well.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—extra cheese, bacon bits, or fresh parsley.
Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
- Use freshly shredded cheese; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end—cheese and broth can vary in saltiness.
DON’T:
- Overcook the macaroni; it’ll continue to soften slightly in the hot soup.
- Skip draining the grease if your beef is fatty—it can make the soup too oily.
Pro Tips:
- For added texture, stir in some cooked, crumbled bacon or top with crispy fried onions.
- Want a veggie boost? Toss in diced carrots, celery, or peas when you add the liquids.
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is everything you love about burgers, mac and cheese, and soup—all in one cozy bowl. It’s hearty, cheesy, and ridiculously satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a dose of comfort food magic. 🍔🧀🍲
