Ingredients
Method
Brown the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until it's browned and no longer pink.
- For a leaner dish, drain any excess fat before proceeding.
Sauté Aromatics:
- Add diced onions and minced garlic to the beef.
- Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant—this builds a savory base for your soup.
Build the Base:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes along with Worcestershire sauce and mustard powder.
- Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Incorporate the Broth & Pasta:
- Pour in 4 cups of beef or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Cover the pot and let it cook until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Finish with Cream & Cheese:
- Lower the heat and slowly add in the heavy cream (or half-and-half).
- Gradually mix in the sharp cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup, creating a rich, creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Final Touches:
- Let the soup simmer for another 2 minutes to fully integrate the flavors.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot.