One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon Toast Bites 🍔🥣

Cozy up with a bowl of this hearty, creamy soup that marries the comforting flavors of macaroni, cheeseburgers, and crispy bacon bites. Perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends!

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean for less grease or regular for richer flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the base.
• 2 cups beef broth – Infuses the soup with savory richness.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni – The perfect pasta shape to soak up the cheesy broth.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Go sharp or mild, depending on your preference.
• 1 cup milk – Creates a creamy texture.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Brings out all the flavors.

For the Bacon Toast Bites:

• 4 slices of bread – Any variety, though sourdough adds extra flair.
• 4 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled – Crispy and savory, a perfect topper.
• 2 tbsp butter, melted – To crisp up the toast.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Optional, for an extra kick.

Directions

Make the Soup:

1. Brown the Ground Beef
   Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
2. Add the Beef Broth
   Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This step builds the soup’s savory foundation.
3. Cook the Macaroni
   Stir in the elbow macaroni. Let it simmer uncovered for 7-8 minutes or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add Cheese and Milk
   Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy soup.
5. Season and Serve
   Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls while hot, garnishing with Bacon Toast Bites for extra crunch.

Prepare the Bacon Toast Bites:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush bread slices with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder if using.
3. Top with crumbled bacon and cut each slice into bite-sized squares.
4. Bake on a lined baking sheet for 8-10 minutes or until golden and crisp.

Tips for the Best Soup

• Custom Toppings: Try pickles, diced tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream for a cheeseburger-inspired twist.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Bulk it Up: Toss in frozen peas or diced carrots for a veggie boost.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with Bacon Toast Bites is guaranteed to be a family favorite—comfort food at its finest! 🍲

Helpful Tips to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Even More Delightful:

1. Enhance the Cheese Factor:

• Use a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a hint of smoked Gouda for a deeper, creamier flavor.

2. Add a Bacon Infusion:

• Stir in crumbled bacon directly into the soup for an extra smoky kick that blends seamlessly with the creamy broth.

3. Use Fresh Garlic:

• Sauté minced garlic with the onions and beef to add an aromatic, robust depth of flavor.

4. Toast the Pasta:

• Before adding the broth, lightly toast the dry elbow macaroni in the pot for a nutty undertone that enhances the overall flavor.

5. Make it Creamier:

• Substitute half the milk with heavy cream or evaporated milk for an ultra-luxurious texture.

6. Garnish Like a Pro:

• Top each bowl with fresh parsley, green onions, or even fried onions for an elevated presentation and added flavor.

7. Use a Better Broth:

• Opt for low-sodium or homemade beef broth to better control the soup’s saltiness and enrich the taste.

8. Bring on the Veggies:

• Toss in diced tomatoes, corn kernels, or sautéed mushrooms to add more texture and color.

9. Kick Up the Heat:

• For a spicier version, add a splash of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños.

10. Try a Burger Twist:

• Stir in a dollop of ketchup and mustard to mimic the taste of a classic cheeseburger.

11. Keep the Pasta Perfect:

• Cook the macaroni just until al dente to avoid mushiness, especially if you plan to reheat leftovers.

12. Add a Crunchy Side:

• Serve with homemade garlic breadsticks or crunchy croutons for a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup.

13. Incorporate a Smoky Touch:

• Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a subtle smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the beef and cheese.

14. Sneak in Protein:

• Swap some of the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for variety and an extra layer of flavor.

15. Make it Gluten-Free:

• Use gluten-free pasta and verify that the broth is gluten-free for a dietary-friendly option.

16. Don’t Forget the Pickles:

• Garnish with chopped dill pickles for a tangy bite that mimics the cheeseburger experience.

17. Upgrade Your Bacon Toast Bites:

• Drizzle the toast with a bit of honey or maple syrup before baking for a sweet-and-savory delight.

18. Play with Texture:

• Sprinkle fried onions, crushed potato chips, or crispy tortilla strips on top for a delightful crunch.

19. Add a Smoky Cheese:

• Mix in a small amount of smoked cheddar or Havarti for a bold, distinctive flavor.

20. Experiment with Beer:

• Replace a portion of the broth with a mild beer like lager or ale to add depth and richness.

These tips will elevate your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, turning it into a show-stopping dish full of surprises!