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When cold weather hits, nothing warms me up like a cheesy, creamy bowl of macaroni with ground beef. This is pure comfort in one pan. Loaded with noodles, beef, and two kinds of melty cheese, it really takes me back—and everyone at my table cleans their bowls every time I make it.
One night, the family couldn't agree on dinner, but somehow this did the trick for everyone. Now, they're always asking for it whenever the weather turns chilly.
Hearty Ingredients
- Shredded parmesan cheese: Gives it a salty kick. Fresh from a wedge is best if you’ve got the time.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty and sharp—grab an extra tangy one if you like bold bites.
- Macaroni noodles: Elbow shapes hold up best, perfect for this creamy bowl.
- Matchstick carrots: Sweet crunch and color, and pre-cut makes everything quicker.
- Paprika: Use smoked for extra depth or regular for a subtle warmth.
- Onion powder and Italian seasoning: Toss in for that homestyle, herby taste. Try blends with basil or oregano.
- Salt and pepper: Fine sea salt and fresh black pepper work wonders here.
- Heavy cream: Picks up that creamy texture—just check it’s nice and thick.
- Chicken broth: Good base flavor. Go with low sodium so you can salt it your way.
- All-purpose flour: Gets the soup nice and thick—if possible, go with unbleached.
- Chopped garlic: Punches up the flavor. Use fresh for an even bigger kickoff.
- Yellow onion: Diced small; melts right in for sweetness.
- Lean ground beef: Fresh grind gives the best bite and flavor.
- Olive oil: Stops sticking and tosses in a touch of richness; extra virgin is a win.
Simple Step-by-Step
- Add in the Cheeses:
- Sprinkle in cheddar and parmesan when your timer ends. Give it a few brisk stirs so everything gets gooey and creamy. Taste and dive in while it’s piping hot.
- Simmer and Let It Cook:
- Cover up and drop the heat. Let it bubble gently about twenty minutes. Give it a stir from time to time so your noodles stay loose and nothing sticks.
- Add Pasta plus Carrots:
- As it warms through, toss in carrots and uncooked macaroni. Stir gently so everything mixes in evenly.
- Season Everything:
- Next come paprika, Italian spices, salt, onion powder, and pepper. Stir thoroughly, taste, and tweak to your flavor.
- Pour in Cream and Broth:
- In goes the broth—scrape up any browned bits. Add cream, stir until you get a smooth pool.
- Start the Flavor Base:
- Stir in chopped garlic, give it a minute until you catch that aroma. Dump in flour, mix it around so it cooks for three minutes. This step means your soup won’t taste pasty later.
- Sauté Beef and Onion:
- Drizzle olive oil into your big soup pot. Over medium-high, toss in beef and onions and break everything apart. Let it get deeply browned for massive flavor, about 8-10 minutes.
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Cheddar melting in makes this pure comfort. Its smell alone brings the whole family running. Some nights, a single bite brings back memories of being in my mom's kitchen and begging for another scoop. Warmth and nostalgia, all in a bowl.
How to Store the Leftovers
Pop extras in the fridge in a closed container and they’ll keep three days. Warm it gently on the stove, and if it’s thick just splash in some milk or broth. Go easy on the heat so it stays nice and creamy. You can freeze it too—just let it cool first, then move to bags or containers. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Swaps and Changes
Ground turkey or chicken work great if you want it lighter. Leave out the meat and swap in vegetarian crumbles and veggie broth if you’re skipping the meat. Any cheese you like melts in, so use Monterey Jack or Colby if that's what you grabbed. Don’t have elbows? Small shells or rotini are perfect too. If you're avoiding lactose, go with a lactose-free cream.
Tasty Add-Ons
Ladle it up hot and finish with a sprinkle of cheese and some pepper. A chunk of baguette or a soft dinner roll soaks up every drop. I love a crisp green salad with mine for a fresh twist. If you’re feeling nostalgic, some pickles or a dash of relish on top gives it that cheeseburger vibe.
History and Family Traditions
Pulled from old-school diners and boxed dinner favorites but given a home-cooked upgrade, this one-pot meal shows comfort food never gets old. Every generation puts their spin on cheeseburger classics, and around here, it’s now a family go-to that blends old memories and new ones.
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Sit back and really enjoy each comforting bite. Here’s to making new, cozy memories with your favorite people.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of pasta?
Sure thing! Go for shells, rotini, or any small pasta you like. They'll all work just fine in this soup.
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Of course! Pop leftovers in the fridge for three days. Heat gently and add broth if it’s too thick.
- → Is there a way to make it lighter?
Swap in lighter cheese or use milk instead of heavy cream if you want the soup a bit less rich.
- → What toppings go well with this soup?
Top it with more shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or snip up some green onions for some crunch.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yep! Just remember the noodles get softer after thawing. Let it sit in the fridge overnight, then heat up.