Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 lb ground beef.
02 - 1 small onion, diced.
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced.
04 - 1 large carrot, diced.
05 - 1 stalk celery, diced.
06 - 4 cups beef broth.
07 - 2 cups elbow macaroni.
08 - 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
09 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
10 - 2 cups milk.
11 - 1/2 cup heavy cream.
12 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour.
13 - 1 tbsp olive oil.
14 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
15 - 1/2 tsp mustard powder.
16 - Salt and pepper to taste.
17 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish).

Instructions:

01 - Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
02 - Stir in the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
03 - Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and flour until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
05 - Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted, and the soup is creamy.
06 - Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Notes:

01 - This one-pot soup is the perfect weeknight dinner, combining the flavors of a cheeseburger with hearty macaroni in a creamy, cheesy broth. Great for a cozy and satisfying meal.