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To make this tasty Crockpot Cheeseburger Mac Soup, you need a few simple items. Here’s what you will need: - 1 lb ground beef (or turkey) - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 3 cups beef broth - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, including juice - 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce - 2 cups elbow macaroni - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup whole milk - Chopped green onions for garnish (optional) Each ingredient plays a key role. The ground beef gives the soup its rich flavor. The onions and garlic add depth and aroma. The beef broth serves as the soup's base, while the tomatoes provide acidity and sweetness. Elbow macaroni makes it hearty, and cheddar cheese adds creaminess. Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning boost the flavor, making each bite delightful. Don't forget the milk; it creates a smooth texture. The green onions on top offer a fresh finish. Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a bowl of warm comfort! - Browning the meat mixture: First, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey. Toss in 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook this mix for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is brown. Drain the fat for a healthier option. - Transferring to the crockpot: Next, move the browned meat mixture into your crockpot. Be sure to scrape all the tasty bits from the skillet into the pot. - Adding remaining ingredients: In the crockpot, pour in 3 cups of beef broth, 1 can of diced tomatoes (15 oz) with juice, and 1 can of tomato sauce (8 oz). Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well. - Low setting duration: Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-7 hours. This slow cooking makes all the flavors blend nicely while the macaroni becomes tender. - High setting duration: If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high. Cook for 3-4 hours, but check to ensure the macaroni is soft. - Incorporating milk and cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in 1 cup of whole milk and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the soup is hot. - Tasting and adjusting seasoning: Finally, taste the soup and add more salt or pepper as needed. This step ensures your soup has the perfect flavor before you serve it. To get the best taste, adjust the seasonings. I like to add more Italian seasoning. It gives a nice herby flavor. If you want a kick, try adding some red pepper flakes. You can also swap cheeses. Cheddar is great, but try Monterey Jack for a creamier taste. For the right macaroni consistency, add it when the soup is nearly done. This helps keep it tender, not mushy. If you want a creamier soup, use more whole milk. You can blend some soup to make it smooth. Just remember to stir well after adding milk and cheese. Meal prep is easy for this soup. Brown the meat and chop the onion ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. You can also make it a day early. Just let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently on low heat, adding more milk if needed. {{image_4}} You can switch up the protein in this soup. If you prefer chicken, use diced, cooked chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or black beans. They add great texture and protein. You can also add vegetables to boost nutrition. Spinach is a great choice. It wilts nicely and adds color. Bell peppers work well too. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients. If you want to make this soup on the stove, start by browning the meat in a pot. Then add the rest of the ingredients, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking. For an Instant Pot version, brown the meat using the sauté function. Then add all the other ingredients. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes. Quick-release the pressure and stir in the milk and cheese. If you need a gluten-free option, swap the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta. Look for options made from rice or corn. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk. Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese. There are many choices available that melt well. To keep your crockpot cheeseburger mac soup fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to cool the soup before sealing it. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent condensation and soggy leftovers. When you want to enjoy leftovers, the best way to reheat soup is on the stove. Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat. Stir gently as it warms up. You can also use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps avoid hot spots. For a smooth texture, add a splash of milk if needed. If you want to store the soup for a longer time, freezing is a great option. First, let the soup cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. To thaw, place the soup in the fridge overnight. For quick thawing, you can use the microwave. Reheat on the stove after thawing. This keeps the flavors intact. Yes, you can use other pasta types. Penne or shells work well. These shapes hold sauce nicely. They cook in about 10 to 12 minutes in the crockpot. Just check for tenderness before serving. You can keep this soup in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. For freezing, it lasts for about three months. Just let it cool before freezing. Absolutely! You can swap the beef for cooked lentils or beans. They add great texture and protein. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. This makes a hearty, meatless meal. This blog covered a comforting soup recipe that’s easy to make. You learned about key ingredients, from ground meat to cheese, and the step-by-step process. With tips on flavor and texture, you can personalize your dish. Plus, we discussed variations for different diets. Whether storing leftovers or reheating, I’ve got you covered. Enjoy creating this delicious meal that fits your needs and tastes. You’ll love how simple and satisfying it is!

Crockpot Cheeseburger Mac Soup

Cozy up with a delicious bowl of Crockpot Cheeseburger Mac Soup! This easy recipe combines hearty ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich cheddar cheese for a comforting meal. Simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy a flavorful dish that the whole family will love. Ready to make mealtime special? Click through to explore this simple recipe and bring warmth to your table today!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups beef broth

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, including juice

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup whole milk

Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.

    Transfer the browned meat mixture to the crockpot, ensuring to scrape in any flavorful bits from the skillet.

      In the crockpot, add the beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients well.

        Cover the crockpot with its lid and set the temperature to low, cooking for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The macaroni should be tender before proceeding to the next step.

          About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, gently stir in the whole milk and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is evenly heated.

            Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 7 hours | Servings: 6

                - Presentation Tips: For a delightful presentation, ladle the soup into soup bowls, generously sprinkle with chopped green onions, and accompany with warm garlic bread for a hearty touch.