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### Instructions
#### 1. Brown the Ground Beef
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
– Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened, about 3–4 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
#### 2. Add the Base Ingredients
– Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
– Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle boil.
#### 3. Cook the Pasta
– Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring to prevent sticking.
– Lower the heat to medium and let the pasta cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
#### 4. Make It Creamy
– Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
– Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and creamy.
#### 5. Serve and Garnish
– Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or additional shredded cheese if desired.
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### Tips for Success
– **Choose Quality Cheese**: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting consistency.
– **Watch the Pasta**: Avoid overcooking the macaroni to keep it al dente and prevent it from becoming mushy.
– **Make It Thicker**: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup before adding the cheese.
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### Variations
– **Vegetable Boost**: Add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
– **Spicy Twist**: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese for a kick.
– **Turkey or Chicken**: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
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### Serving Suggestions
– Pair the soup with warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every drop of creamy goodness.
– Top with crispy bacon bits, pickles, or a dollop of sour cream for a cheeseburger-inspired finish.
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### Storage and Reheating
– **Refrigeration**: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– **Freezing**: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
– **Reheating**: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened.
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### Why This Soup Stands Out
This **One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup** is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl of nostalgia and comfort. The savory, cheesy broth combined with tender macaroni and seasoned beef makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
So grab a spoon, dig in, and savor the flavors of this ultimate comfort food!
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