This is the ultimate comfort food mashup! Imagine all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger and creamy macaroni and cheese, combined into a hearty, comforting soup that cooks in a single pot. It’s family-friendly, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
· 1 lb (450g) ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor)
· 1 medium yellow onion, diced
· 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
· 4 cups (1 liter) beef broth (or chicken broth)
· 1 (14.5 oz / 411g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
· 1 (8 oz / 227g) can tomato sauce
· 2 cups whole milk
· 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
· 1 tsp dried oregano
· 1 tsp paprika
· ½ tsp mustard powder (optional but recommended)
· 1 ½ cups (about 6 oz / 170g) uncooked elbow macaroni
· 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
· Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings (The “Burger” Bar):
· Shredded iceberg lettuce
· Diced dill pickles or pickle relish
· Diced tomatoes
· Crispy cooked and crumbled bacon
· A dollop of ketchup or mustard (trust me!)
· Extra shredded cheese
· Sour cream
Instructions
Brown the Beef & Veggies:
· In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain most of the fat, leaving about 1 tbsp.
· Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Create the Roux & Base:
· Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture. Stir constantly and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
· Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (that’s flavor!).
Discover more
Bread
Chocolate
Garlic
Simmer & Build Flavor:
· Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, paprika, and mustard powder. Stir well.
· Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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