Name: One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 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; 4 pieces sesame seed buns, diced (into 1-inch pieces); 2 tablespoons olive oil; sliced green onion (for garnish); shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)

Introduction to One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

When life gets busy, one-pot meals become a lifesaver for young professionals. Imagine coming home after a long day and not wanting to tackle a mountain of dishes—this is where One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup shines. It’s not just quick to prepare; it combines the comfort of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of soup, all made in one pot! No fuss, no muss—just deliciousness.

Why One-Pot Meals are a Game Changer for Busy Professionals
In our fast-paced world, meal prep can feel daunting. One-pot dishes simplify things dramatically. According to a study by the USDA, approximately 31% of food goes to waste because of overly complicated cooking methods, leading to frustration and ultimately, takeout. One-pot recipes like this soup cut out the extra steps, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying great food and unwinding after a hectic day.

Not only does preparing meals in one pot minimize clean-up, but it also enhances flavor as ingredients meld together beautifully. Plus, this recipe is packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome option for anyone looking to refuel after a long day. So grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into this savory delight!

Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Key Ingredients for a Wholesome Meal

Creating a creamy, savory bowl of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup requires just a handful of core ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a deliciously satisfying meal:

1 lb. ground beef: The heart of our cheeseburger flavor.
Veggies: Onions, carrots, and celery add depth and nutrition.
Garlic: For that aromatic kick that wakes up the dish!
Elbow macaroni: These little pasta shapes soak up all the goodness.
Chicken broth and heavy cream: The base for our rich, creamy soup.

Make sure to have the essential seasonings on hand, like dried oregano and thyme, which enhance the dish's flavor profile.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Looking to elevate your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup? Consider these fun add-ins:

Cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly for that ooey-gooey goodness.
Turkey bacon or diced chicken ham: Adds a salty, savory touch.
Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can provide a refreshing brightness.
Hot sauce: For that extra zing if you love a bit of heat.

Feel free to customize based on what you have in your pantry! Each variation is a chance to discover a new favorite twist on this comforting soup.

Preparing One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making a big pot of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup at home is not just easy; it’s a fantastic way to serve up a hearty meal that brings comfort and joy to your table. This satisfying recipe combines the essence of cheeseburgers and classic macaroni soup in a delightful medley. Follow these straightforward steps to create a rich, creamy, and downright delicious soup!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients to streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

For the croutons, which add that perfect crunch:

4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil

Once you’ve lined everything up, it’s time to get cooking!

Brown the Beef to Perfection

In a large pot, heat over medium heat, adding your ground beef along with 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, dried thyme, and a couple of pinches of salt and pepper. Cook the beef until it’s browned and crumbles nicely. It usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial, as browning your beef enhances its flavor, setting a delicious base for the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside, but don’t worry about cleaning the pot; those brown bits are flavor gold!

Sauté the Veggies and Enhance the Flavor

In the same pot (yes, keep it simple!), melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add your diced onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery, sprinkling them with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften and their flavors meld beautifully.

Stir in 5 cloves of minced garlic, the remaining dried oregano, and thyme. Cooking the garlic for just a minute brings a wonderful aroma to your kitchen and enhances the overall flavor profile of your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Build the Soup's Base

Next, sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of flour and stir to coat the veggies. This is a key step in thickening your soup later! Cook for another minute, allowing the flour to absorb all those delicious flavors. Then, add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up those flavorful brown bits stuck to the bottom.

Now it’s time to pour in the remaining 8 cups of chicken broth, along with the uncooked elbow macaroni. Don’t forget to add another pinch of salt and pepper! Bring this concoction to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat and get ready for some seriously yummy moments.

Add the Macaroni and Simmer

Once your soup is simmering, let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the macaroni is tender. Keep stirring occasionally; this way, the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth and veggies, creating a delightful blending of tastes in your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Finish with Creaminess

Once the macaroni reaches the desired tenderness, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream to add that creamy richness. This is when the magic happens! Stir everything together and taste—feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Make Your Croutons

While your soup is bubbling away, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, spread out the diced sesame seed buns, drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and toss to coat. Bake for about 10 minutes until they turn crispy and golden—these croutons will add a delightful crunch to the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that everyone will love.

Now that you’ve prepared this delicious soup, it’s time to ladle it into bowls, top with those homemade croutons, and garnish with sliced green onions and shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Variations on One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Vegetarian Option: Swap Beef for Lentils

For a delicious vegetarian twist on your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, consider swapping out the ground beef for lentils. Not only does this make the soup heartier, but it also adds a healthy punch of protein and fiber. Simply use 1 cup of cooked lentils in place of the beef, and follow the recipe as directed. The lentils soak up the savory flavors beautifully, making for a satisfying meal without the meat.

Spicy Twist: Add Jalapeños for a Kick

If you're craving something a little zestier, why not spice things up? Adding diced jalapeños to your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is an easy way to dial up the heat. Start by sautéing 1-2 fresh jalapeños with the onions and veggies. The result is a flavorful soup that warms you from the inside out—perfect for chilly days!

Cheesy Beef Version: Add Extra Cheese

For an even more indulgent experience, mix in extra cheese to your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. A couple of handfuls of shredded cheddar cheese stirred in at the end will melt beautifully and create a creamy texture. You can also experiment with other cheeses, like gouda or pepper jack, for different flavor profiles. Just a tip: for the ultimate cheesy experience, top your soup with grilled cheese croutons instead of regular ones!

Now you're ready to customize your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup to your heart's content!

Cooking Tips and Notes for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Pasta

To achieve perfectly cooked pasta in your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, consistently check the texture towards the end of the cooking time. For more definitive results, consider cooking the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly after being taken off the heat. If you're unsure, refer to the package instructions, which serve as a great guideline.

How to Adjust Thickness and Creaminess

Finding the right balance of thickness and creaminess is key to this dish. If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add a bit more flour during cooking. On the other hand, for a creamier texture, incorporate extra heavy cream or even a splash of milk. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly—taste as you go for the best results.

Storing and Reheating Your Soup

Storing your soup properly can extend its lifespan for several days. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on low on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain even warmth. If the soup thickens upon refrigeration, a splash of water or broth can help restore its original consistency.

With these tips, you'll elevate your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup game and become the go-to chef among your friends!

Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Ideal Pairings to Elevate Your Meal

Serving One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful experience on its own, but you can elevate it with perfect pairings. Consider a light garden salad dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the soup. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread or homemade croutons made from toasted sesame seed buns will add a satisfying crunch. For a refreshing drink, try pairing it with a cold iced tea or sparkling lemonade to cleanse the palate between hearty spoonfuls.

Time Breakdown for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Preparation Time

Gathering your ingredients and prepping the veggies takes about 10 minutes. This is the perfect time to chop onions, carrots, and celery. Don’t forget to measure out everything—you’ll thank yourself later!

Cooking Time

With the cooking process included, expect to spend around 30 minutes. This ensures the ground beef is brown and the flavors meld beautifully with the vegetables and broth.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at a quick 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without all the fuss.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a small gathering, this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze! Want to dive deeper into the recipe? Check out our full list of ingredients here and discover essential tips for perfect execution.

Nutritional Facts for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Calories per Serving

One serving of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup typically contains around 450-500 calories. This hearty dish combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheeseburger, making it a satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Protein Content

Packed with protein, each serving boasts about 25-30 grams, thanks to the ground beef and macaroni. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to fuel their workouts or maintain muscle.

Sodium Levels

While delicious, it’s essential to be mindful of sodium levels. A serving can contain around 800-900 mg of sodium, depending on the broth used. Consider low-sodium options to keep your intake in check while still enjoying this flavorful dish.

For more insights on healthy eating, check out the American Heart Association for tips on managing sodium intake!

FAQ About One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To make it ahead, follow the recipe as usual, then let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

What are good substitutes for ground beef?

If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, try some of these options for a delicious twist:

Ground turkey: A leaner option with similar flavor profiles.
Ground chicken: Light and versatile, perfect for soups.
Plant-based crumbles: Ideal for a vegetarian or vegan take—brands like Beyond Meat or Impossible Foods work wonderfully!

How can I make it dairy-free?

Making One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup dairy-free is straightforward. Use coconut milk or an almond-based cream in place of heavy cream for a creamy texture without the dairy. For cheese, consider nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute for that cheesy flavor.

By exploring these options, you can customize this comforting soup to fit your dietary preferences. Enjoy!

Conclusion on One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

In summary, this delightful One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines the rich flavors of a cheeseburger with the comfort of a warm bowl of soup. Perfect for busy weeknights, it brings the family together over a hearty meal. Give it a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves!