One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the heartiness of a cheeseburger with the warmth of a creamy soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is quick to prepare and clean up since everything cooks in just one pot. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to an easy, delicious meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: With all ingredients cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream creates a delightful richness that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables or adjust spices based on your family’s preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make your cooking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for making this one-pot recipe; it allows for even cooking of all ingredients.
• Baking sheet: Used for crisping the sesame seed buns, adding a delightful texture to your soup.

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Ingredients

For the Soup:
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
– 6 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup yellow onion, diced
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1 cup sliced celery
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons flour
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
– Kosher salt, to taste
– Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

For the Croutons:
– 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Garnish:
– Sliced green onion
– Shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Heat your oven to 400 degrees. Place sesame seed bun cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Bake for 10 minutes or until crispy on the outside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef along with 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, crumbling it with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same large pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

Reduce heat to medium. Stir in minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour

Add flour to the vegetable mixture; stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for one more minute while stirring frequently.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck at the bottom.

Step 7: Combine Broth and Pasta

Stir in the remaining chicken broth along with uncooked macaroni noodles. Season with another pinch of salt and pepper. Turn heat up to medium-high until it reaches a simmer.

Step 8: Simmer Until Al Dente

Once simmering, reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes or until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Add Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream followed by shredded cheese until melted.

Step 10: Final Touches

Add white balsamic vinegar back into the pot along with the cooked ground beef. Heat over medium heat until warmed through; season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Step 11: Serve

Serve hot topped with sesame seed bun croutons, green onions, and extra shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy your delicious One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to consider.

Croutons

• Sesame Seed Bun Croutons: Bake diced sesame seed buns until crispy for a delightful crunch on top of your soup.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: Add a fresh touch with sliced green onions for extra flavor and color.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top makes the soup even more indulgent.

Accompaniments

• Fresh Salad: Pair the soup with a light salad, such as a garden or Caesar salad, for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for an additional comforting element that complements the flavors.

Beverages

• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade can balance the richness of the soup.
• Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, sparkling water with lemon adds fizz without overpowering the meal.

How to Perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

To make your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup even better, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your taste; adding more herbs can enhance flavor.
• Creamy Texture: For an ultra-creamy soup, consider increasing the amount of heavy cream or using half-and-half.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones for better texture and flavor in your soup.
• Low-Sodium Broth: If watching sodium intake, use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the dish.
• Leftover Meat Variations: Experiment by using leftover cooked chicken or turkey for added convenience and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into the cheesy soup and adds a wonderful aroma.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons makes for a refreshing side that balances richness.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, providing contrast to the creamy soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and pairs well with the flavors of the soup.

5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can complement the cheeseburger theme while adding heartiness.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins can provide a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory flavors.

7. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and freshness, making them a healthy choice alongside your meal.

8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add a bright note to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect dish.

• Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown the ground beef adds less flavor to your soup. Always take the time to brown the meat properly before adding other ingredients.
• Not seasoning enough – Overlooking seasonings can lead to bland soup. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs throughout the cooking process for a tasty result.
• Using cold ingredients – Adding cold broth or cream can lower the temperature of your soup. Always use room temperature or warmed ingredients when possible for better cooking results.
• Ignoring pasta cooking times – Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow package directions for al dente pasta and stir occasionally while simmering.
• Rushing the simmering process – Quick cooking can result in uneven flavors. Allow your soup to simmer gently for optimal taste and texture.
• Skipping garnishes – Skipping toppings like green onions or extra cheese can miss enhancing flavors and presentation. Always finish with garnishes for a complete dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop – Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring often to prevent sticking, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure that your broth and flour alternatives are also gluten-free.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a blend of milk and cornstarch for a lighter version.

How spicy is One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

This dish is not inherently spicy. However, you can add hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat!

Can I customize the cheese used in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you enjoy, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, depending on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is an easy and comforting meal that brings families together. Its creamy texture combined with hearty ingredients makes it satisfying. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses! Give this delicious recipe a try today!