Cheeseburger Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Add the onion and garlic to the beef, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, bringing the soup to a gentle boil.
4. Add Macaroni: Add the uncooked macaroni, reduce the heat, and simmer until the macaroni is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and heavy cream until melted and creamy.
6. Season and Garnish: Add salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.

Top 20 Popular Questions & Answers

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
   • Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, mini shells, or rotini work well.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   • Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and will still taste great.
3. Will this recipe work in a slow cooker?
   • Yes, but add the pasta in the last 30 minutes to avoid it overcooking.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Yes, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating.
5. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   • Half-and-half, whole milk, or evaporated milk are good substitutes.
6. Can I add veggies to this soup?
   • Definitely! Try adding carrots, bell peppers, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
7. How can I make this spicier?
   • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
8. Can I make it gluten-free?
   • Substitute gluten-free pasta and check that your beef broth is gluten-free.
9. Can I make it dairy-free?
   • Use plant-based cream and dairy-free cheese substitutes.
10. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
    • It will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
11. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
    • Yes, but beef broth adds a richer flavor.
12. How do I reheat leftovers?
    • Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if it’s too thick.
13. What kind of cheese works best?
    • Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, but Monterey Jack works too.
14. Can I add bacon for extra flavor?
    • Yes! Crispy bacon bits are a delicious addition.
15. Is there a way to make this soup thicker?
    • Add a little cornstarch slurry or use more cheese.
16. Can I double this recipe?
    • Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger pot.
17. Does it taste like a cheeseburger?
    • Yes, it has similar flavors thanks to the beef, cheese, and seasonings.
18. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
    • Yes, but freshly shredded cheese will melt better and provide a creamier texture.
19. What’s the best garnish for this soup?
    • Fresh parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of bacon!
20. Can I use water instead of broth?
    • Beef broth adds depth, but water with extra seasoning could work in a pinch.

30 Tips to Make It Even More Delightful

1. Sear the beef until deeply browned for added flavor.
2. Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture.
3. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
4. Try smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
5. Swap some cheddar for pepper jack if you like spice.
6. Stir in a tablespoon of mustard for a “cheeseburger” flavor.
7. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a hint of char.
8. Add diced pickles for a true cheeseburger twist!
9. Cook pasta separately if you plan to reheat often.
10. Add a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
11. Top with crumbled tortilla chips for crunch.
12. Serve with toasted garlic bread on the side.
13. Use a mix of ground beef and sausage for more flavor.
14. Add fresh basil or oregano for a fragrant touch.
15. Garnish with green onions for freshness.
16. A dash of hot sauce perks up the flavor!
17. Add diced bell peppers with onions for color.
18. Substitute ground bison for a leaner option.
19. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese before serving.
20. Add diced potatoes for a heartier soup.
21. Throw in chopped kale or spinach for greens.
22. Use evaporated milk instead of cream for lower fat.
23. Make a crispy crouton topping with garlic butter.
24. Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.
25. Use half chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
26. Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese for creaminess.
27. Top with diced avocado for a fresh element.
28. Make it kid-friendly by keeping spice levels low.
29. For a smoky taste, add a bit of smoked sausage.
30. Serve with classic cheeseburger toppings on the side!

30 Secrets to Achieving the Perfect Creamy Taco Cheeseburger Soup

1. Sauté onions until they’re caramelized for sweetness.
2. Use full-fat cheese for the best melt and flavor.
3. A pinch of sugar enhances the tomatoes’ flavor.
4. Use bone broth for extra richness.
5. Deglaze with a splash of vinegar for depth.
6. Simmer soup longer for a thicker texture.
7. Stir cheese in slowly to avoid clumps.
8. Keep soup at a simmer (not boil) for smooth cream.
9. Add a touch of chili powder for complexity.
10. Finish with a squeeze of lemon to brighten.
11. Use fresh herbs for garnish—chives or parsley.
12. Save a little cheese for a final sprinkle on top.
13. Thicken soup with a bit of cornstarch slurry.
14. Add crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
15. Try adding smoked gouda for a smoky twist.
16. Brown meat with garlic for maximum flavor.
17. Serve in bread bowls for a fun presentation.
18. Toast buns as a side for a cheeseburger vibe.
19. Use a splash of beer to deglaze for richness.
20. Top with crumbled tortilla chips for crunch.
21. Cook pasta separately to avoid overcooking.
22. Garnish with a swirl of sriracha for spice.
23. Use fresh ground beef for optimal flavor.
24. Add a bit of beef bouillon for depth.
25. Stir in some pre-cooked bacon pieces for flavor.
26. Try adding a small amount of Velveeta for creaminess.
27. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf for aroma.
28. Let soup rest 5 minutes before serving to thicken.
29. Stir in a dash of soy sauce for umami.
30. For a “cheeseburger” touch, add a few diced pickles before serving.

Enjoy making and sharing this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!