One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
🥣 Ingredients:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 cup tomato sauce
1½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon mustard
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
🔥 Instructions:
Brown the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Aromatics
Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Build the Soup Base
Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, paprika, pepper, and salt.
Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked macaroni.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Make It Creamy & Cheesy
Lower heat. Stir in milk.
Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Adjust & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning.
If too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
🍔 Optional Toppings:
Extra shredded cheese
Crumbled cooked bacon
Chopped pickles (for true cheeseburger flavor!)
Green onions
Toasted sesame bun croutons