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A hearty one‑pot American comfort soup that combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and a hint of smoky flavor from liquid smoke. Perfect for chilly evenings, this quick‑cook dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein.
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Everything you need to know about this recipe
Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a modern twist on classic American comfort dishes that combine pasta, cheese, and ground beef—ingredients that became household staples during the mid‑20th century. It reflects the post‑war era’s love for quick, one‑pot meals that could feed a family on a budget.
In the Midwest, cooks often add corn and use cheddar‑jack cheese, while in the Southwest a touch of chipotle or cumin replaces liquid smoke for a spicier profile. Some Southern versions swap the beef broth for chicken broth and finish with a dash of hot sauce.
It is typically served hot in deep bowls, sometimes topped with extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or a drizzle of hot sauce. It is often paired with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete comfort meal.
Because it’s quick and filling, the soup is popular for casual family dinners, game‑day gatherings, and cold‑weather potlucks. It’s also a go‑to comfort dish for college students and busy parents looking for a hearty meal in under an hour.
Traditional ingredients include ground beef, elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, beef broth, and a hint of smoky flavor (liquid smoke or smoked paprika). Substitutes can be ground turkey for a leaner protein, pasta shapes like shells, or milk instead of heavy cream, but the core flavor profile remains the same.
Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread, or a simple coleslaw. For a full meal, a side of baked beans or roasted vegetables complements the soup’s richness.
It uniquely blends the heartiness of a beef‑based soup with the creamy, cheesy comfort of a macaroni‑and‑cheese casserole, while the liquid smoke adds a subtle barbecue note that sets it apart from ordinary cheese soups.
Common errors include overcooking the pasta, which makes it mushy, adding cheese over high heat causing it to seize, and using too much liquid smoke which can overpower the flavor. Follow the timing steps and add cheese on low heat for best results.
The soup is ready when the pasta is al dente, the cheese has fully melted into a smooth, creamy broth, and the beef is fully cooked (no pink). A gentle simmer with occasional stirring should achieve this within the listed cooking time.
The YouTube channel All Wings Everything focuses on creative, comfort‑food style recipes that often feature bold flavors, quick one‑pot meals, and playful twists on classic dishes, all presented with a casual, home‑cook vibe.
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