Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Add Broth and Milk:
Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Cook the Pasta:
Once the broth is simmering, add the elbow macaroni (or any small pasta) to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
Stir in the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes creamy. If you prefer a richer texture, you can also stir in the heavy cream at this point.
Season the Soup:
Add dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference and stir well.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped pickles and fresh parsley for a true cheeseburger twist! Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping, if desired.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Ideas:
This soup is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread, a green salad, or even some crispy French fries for an extra treat. For a burger-inspired vibe, top the soup with chopped pickles or a few slices of crispy bacon.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftover One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
Freezing:
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that dairy-based soups can sometimes change texture when frozen. To reheat, warm the soup slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy consistency.
Adjusting the Consistency:
If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken the broth. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Variants:
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup:
For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef. You can also stir in a handful of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup:
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and enjoy a lighter, meat-free version of this comforting soup.
Bacon Cheeseburger Soup:
Add some crispy crumbled bacon to the soup for a smoky flavor that complements the cheeseburger taste. You can either cook the bacon separately and sprinkle it on top before serving or stir it directly into the soup.
Cheeseburger Soup with Veggies:
For a heartier version, include more vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn. Add them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep them tender and bright.
FAQ:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape you like, such as penne, shells, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different pasta shapes.
2. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting for a day. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken will work well as a leaner substitute for ground beef. You can also add a little extra seasoning to make up for the slightly milder flavor of the poultry.
4. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
To avoid clumping when adding the cheese, make sure the heat is turned down low before you stir in the cheese. Adding a small handful of cheese at a time and stirring continuously will help it melt smoothly.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating due to the dairy. To restore the creamy texture, add a little milk or cream when reheating.
Conclusion:
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and savory comfort, all in a simple and easy-to-make one-pot dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a filling meal to serve guests, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. With its rich, creamy texture and delicious cheeseburger-inspired flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
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