Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 package Hamburger Helper® mix for Cheeseburger Macaroni
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 5 c. water
- 1 (10 oz.) package frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Place ground beef and onion in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cook until beef is browned; drain.
Step 2: Stir in Hamburger Helper® sauce mix powder, water, tomatoes (with liquid), basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Hamburger Helper® macaroni and mixed vegetables. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until macaroni is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes longer. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts:
Yield: | Estimate the nutritional information for each serving:
Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 20g | Fat: 15g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 800mg
Recipe notes and helpful tips:
Note that as this soup sits, the macaroni absorbs more and more liquid. — Leftovers taste great, but the leftover soup will be thicker with much less liquid broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a leaner meat alternative instead of ground beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option while still maintaining the delicious flavors of Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup.
2. Can I add extra vegetables to boost the nutritional content?
Certainly! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient density of the soup.
3. Is there a low-sodium alternative for this recipe?
Yes, you can choose low-sodium diced tomatoes and reduce the added salt to make the soup more heart-healthy without sacrificing flavor.
4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time.
Keep in mind that as it sits, the macaroni will absorb more liquid, resulting in a thicker consistency. Reheat gently, and you can add a bit of water or broth if needed.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers of Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to airtight containers.
It can be frozen for future use. When reheating, you may need to add some liquid as the macaroni will continue to absorb moisture during freezing.
6. Can I use a different type of pasta if I don’t have the specific macaroni mentioned in the recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to substitute with your preferred pasta shape, adjusting the cooking time if needed.
7. Is there a vegetarian version of this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by using plant-based ground “beef” alternatives and a vegetable broth instead of water and beef.
8. Can I add cheese to enhance the cheesy flavor in this soup?
Absolutely! Grated cheddar or American cheese can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy kick.
9. Are there alternative seasoning options to basil, salt, and pepper?
Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like oregano, thyme, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to add different layers of flavor to the soup.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker for added convenience?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions, then transfer to the slow cooker along with other ingredients.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until macaroni is tender. Adjust seasoning before serving.
