Are you craving a hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This cheeseburger macaroni soup is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or cozy weekend evenings. It's a delicious twist on two comfort food favorites – cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese – combined into one unbelievably tasty bowl. This recipe is packed with flavor, perfect for a quick dinner, and easily adaptable to your preferences. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its best!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef and Aromatics:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, oregano, basil, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through and tender.
Step 3: Creamy Cheese Perfection:
Stir in the milk and cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying:
Serve the cheeseburger macaroni soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This delicious dish is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup:
- For richer flavor: Use a combination of beef broth and milk for a more decadent soup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Variations:
- Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Add 4-6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian crumbles for a hearty vegetarian option.
This easy recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals that don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful soup any day of the week! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.