One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

A filling, cozy, and delectable dish, One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup blends the flavors of a cheeseburger with macaroni and creamy soup. It is simple to prepare in a single pot, which simplifies cleanup. This is a basic recipe:

Components:

1. One pound of ground beef (or, for a leaner alternative, turkey)
2. One medium onion, chopped
3. Two minced garlic cloves
4. Four cups of chicken or beef broth
5. Two cups of whole milk (for a thicker soup, use heavy cream)
6. 1½ cups of raw elbow macaroni
7. Two cups of cheddar cheese, shredded
8. One cup of chopped tomatoes, either fresh or canned
9. One cup of optional frozen corn
10. One tablespoon of ketchup (optional; adds a little tang)
11. One tablespoon of mustard, if desired, for a traditional burger taste
12. To taste, add salt and pepper.
13. One teaspoon of optional dried oregano or Italian seasoning
14. One or two tablespoons of butter or olive oil (for cooking)

Directions:

Prepare the ground beef by:

• Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• As it cooks, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned. If necessary, drain any extra fat.

Add the garlic and onions and sauté.

• Cook the chopped onion in the pot with the beef for approximately three minutes, or until it becomes tender.
• Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds more.

Pour in the liquids:

• Add the milk (or cream) and beef broth. Mix thoroughly to incorporate.

Add the seasonings and pasta:

• Add the diced tomatoes, uncooked macaroni, frozen corn (if using), optional mustard and ketchup, and stir. Add salt, pepper, and oregano or Italian seasoning to taste.
• The mixture should be brought to a gentle boil. The macaroni should be soft and cooked through after 10 to 12 minutes of simmering, uncovered, over low heat.

Add the cheese:

• Once the macaroni is tender, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

Serve and enjoy:

• If desired, add a little more ketchup or mustard, salt, or pepper after tasting the soup.
  Serve the soup hot, and optionally, sprinkle with more shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for added taste!

Advice:

• Make it extra cheesy: Feel free to add more cheese for a richer, cheesier soup.
• Vegetable options: You can add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Storage: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove and add a little extra broth or milk if it thickens too much.

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day, combining the best elements of a cheeseburger in a creamy, hearty soup!