Introduction
Warm up your kitchen and your hearts with this delightful Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, a comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of macaroni soup. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a delicious burst of flavor, creamy richness, and a joyful reminder of simpler times. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer slightly.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, cooking until it’s beautifully browned. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, and make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the soup light and flavorful.
- Next, stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables become tender and aromatic.
- Pour in the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a hearty boil that warms the kitchen.
- Add in the uncooked macaroni, Italian seasoning, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for around 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente and blissfully tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. As it melts into the soup, it creates a rich and creamy texture that’s utterly irresistible.
- Finally, pour in the heavy cream, mixing well to combine all the beautifully blended flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider using beef broth that’s homemade or low-sodium to control the saltiness. If you want to make this meal even heartier, feel free to toss in additional vegetables like peas or diced potatoes. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily, making this a perfect dish for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of basic sautéing and simmering techniques. Sautéing the meat and vegetables first helps to develop those wonderful flavors, while simmering the soup melds everything together into a deliciously comforting bowl. Remember, gently breaking up the beef while cooking ensures it remains tender and mixes well with the other ingredients.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe and offers a lighter alternative.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the soup.
Conclusion
This Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s bound to bring smiles to your dinner table. So gather your loved ones, and enjoy the cozy comfort of this delectable dish. Bon appétit!