One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Without Velveeta

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Indulge in a hearty, flavor-packed One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that combines the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese with the savory essence of a cheeseburger. This delightful recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients and skips the Velveeta for a rich, homemade taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pot Wonder: Simplifies cleanup for a hassle-free meal.
  • Wholesome Ingredients: No processed cheese; made with fresh, real flavors.
  • Family Favorite: Perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 1 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
  • 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
  • Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste

For the Croutons:

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

Garnishes:

  • Sliced green onion
  • Extra shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sesame Seed Bun Croutons

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange the diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef with 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Cook until the beef is crumbled and browned.
  3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

  1. Lower the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic, the remaining 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of thyme.
  2. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.

Step 5: Thicken the Base

  1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
  2. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid clumping.

Step 6: Deglaze and Simmer

  1. Add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  2. Pour in the remaining broth, along with the uncooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to low.
  4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Step 7: Incorporate Cream and Cheese

  1. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
  2. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 8: Final Touches

  1. Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
  2. Stir in the white balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor.
  3. Heat gently over medium heat for a few minutes, ensuring everything is warmed through.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Top with the crispy sesame seed bun croutons, sliced green onion, and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese.

Expert Tips for Perfect One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  1. Cheese Selection: Use a high-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
  2. Customize Vegetables: Add diced potatoes, corn, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
  3. Make It Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  4. Crouton Hack: Make extra croutons—they’re great for salads or snacking!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Unlike traditional cheeseburger soups that rely on processed cheese, this recipe delivers a natural richness with fresh cheddar and cream. The addition of white balsamic vinegar creates a tangy depth that complements the savory base, while homemade sesame seed croutons add an irresistible crunch.

Conclusion

Elevate your dinner game with this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup—a comforting dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

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