There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a comforting bowl of soup. For many of us, it evokes memories of family dinners gathered around the table, where laughter and warmth fill the air, and the aroma of something delicious wafts through the home. This Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup perfectly encapsulates that feeling.
Imagine a chilly evening after a long day, where you can come home to the delightful scent of beef, cheese, and spices bubbling away in your slow cooker. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. This recipe is special not only because of its creamy, cheesy goodness but also because it’s a versatile dish that caters to the entire family, especially the kids. Plus, it’s simple to prepare—just toss everything in your crockpot and let it do the magic!
Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together, preparing for a game night, or just looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, this soup fits perfectly into any occasion. So grab your ingredients, and let’s make some memories!
Ingredients:
For this comforting Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the star of the dish, adding that classic cheeseburger flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds depth and aroma.
- 4 cups beef broth: This forms the base of your soup, bringing richness to the flavors.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: For a pop of acidity and sweetness.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: Carrots add sweetness and nutrition.
- 2 cups macaroni noodles: The heartiness of macaroni makes this dish comforting and filling.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: The star ingredient for that creamy, cheesy finish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This enhances the soup’s creaminess and richness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: For umami flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. This step releases the natural sweetness of the onion and enhances the flavor of the soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as you go. Drain any excess grease if necessary. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor and texture to the soup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, combine the sautéed onions and garlic, browned ground beef, diced tomatoes (with their juice), carrots, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure all the flavors meld.
Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This long, slow cooking allows the flavors to develop beautifully and the carrots to become tender.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Cream
About 30 minutes before serving, add the macaroni noodles to the crockpot. If you’re cooking on low, increase the heat to high. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook until the pasta is tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Variations
One of the best aspects of this soup is its versatility. Here are some creative variations you might consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini, for extra flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the soup a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can mix in diced jalapeños for a fun twist.
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some heat, or even cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opt for a dairy-free cream if needed.
Cooking Notes
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Since macaroni noodles will continue to cook even after you’ve turned off the heat, it’s crucial to add them in the last half hour of cooking to avoid mushy pasta.
- Consistency Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the broth or add more cheese. Conversely, if it’s too thick, just add a bit more broth or water.
- Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the pasta will absorb some of the liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are a few suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Garnish: Top each bowl with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add crispy bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.
- Sides: Pair the soup with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. The garlic bread is perfect for dipping!
- Beverage Pairings: A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade balances the richness of the soup, making for a delightful dining experience.
Tips
- Ingredient Storage: When you have leftover soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheating Leftovers: To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
- Meal Prep Idea: You can prep all your ingredients ahead of time, and when you’re ready to cook, just throw everything into the crockpot for a convenient weeknight meal.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time
- Total Time: Approximately 7 hours
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the macaroni cheeseburger soup? A: Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave out the macaroni before freezing. It tends to get mushy when thawed. You can add freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work well. You can also try using Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Q: What can I serve with this soup? A: This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a more rounded dinner.
Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free? A: Simply substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
Conclusion
There you have it! A comforting bowl of Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that will warm your heart and fill your belly. This recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table, sharing laughter, and enjoying a meal that everyone will love.
So, gather your loved ones, and make this soup a staple in your home. Try it out, share your experiences, and let us know how it turned out! We can’t wait to hear your stories and encourage you to explore more comforting recipes on our site.
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Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Total Time: Approximately 7 hours
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For this comforting Crockpot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the star of the dish, adding that classic cheeseburger flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds depth and aroma.
- 4 cups beef broth: This forms the base of your soup, bringing richness to the flavors.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: For a pop of acidity and sweetness.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: Carrots add sweetness and nutrition.
- 2 cups macaroni noodles: The heartiness of macaroni makes this dish comforting and filling.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: The star ingredient for that creamy, cheesy finish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This enhances the soup’s creaminess and richness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: For umami flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. This step releases the natural sweetness of the onion and enhances the flavor of the soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as you go. Drain any excess grease if necessary. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor and texture to the soup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, combine the sautéed onions and garlic, browned ground beef, diced tomatoes (with their juice), carrots, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure all the flavors meld.
Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This long, slow cooking allows the flavors to develop beautifully and the carrots to become tender.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Cream
About 30 minutes before serving, add the macaroni noodles to the crockpot. If you’re cooking on low, increase the heat to high. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook until the pasta is tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Notes
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Since macaroni noodles will continue to cook even after you’ve turned off the heat, it’s crucial to add them in the last half hour of cooking to avoid mushy pasta.
- Consistency Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the broth or add more cheese. Conversely, if it’s too thick, just add a bit more broth or water.
- Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the pasta will absorb some of the liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 800
- Protein: 25