If you’re a fan of classic cheeseburgers and creamy macaroni, you’re in for a treat with this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This dish combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with the comfort of a rich, creamy soup, making it the perfect choice for cozy family dinners, chilly days, and hearty lunches. With ground beef, elbow macaroni, shredded cheese, and savory spices, this soup delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Why Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Will Be Your New Favorite
This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a hit with everyone who tries it! Here are a few reasons you’ll love this recipe:
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour, this one-pot wonder is ideal for busy nights.
- Kid-Friendly: Packed with cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a family favorite.
- Hearty and Filling: This soup has protein, carbs, and veggies for a complete meal.
- Customizable: You can adjust ingredients to suit your taste, dietary needs, or pantry stock.
So, let’s dive into the ingredients, instructions, and a few helpful tips for making this delicious soup!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
This recipe includes everyday ingredients you may already have in your kitchen:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef or turkey works great for a hearty flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Used for sautéing the vegetables and beef.
- Onion, Carrot, and Celery: Adds a classic mirepoix base for a rich, savory flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a punch of flavor and aroma.
- Beef Broth (4 cups): The soup’s flavorful base, though chicken broth can work in a pinch.
- Elbow Macaroni (2 cups): This pasta absorbs the flavors and thickens the soup.
- Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheeses: For a cheesy, creamy finish.
- Milk and Heavy Cream: Creates a creamy texture.
- Flour: Helps thicken the soup.
- Seasonings: Smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper for a flavor boost.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds color and a fresh note on top.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
1. Brown the Beef and Prep the Base
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add the Aromatics
Add diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened. This step adds depth and aroma to the soup.
3. Pour in the Broth and Add Macaroni
Pour in the beef broth, bring to a boil, then add the macaroni. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
4. Prepare the Creamy Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and flour until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. This helps thicken the soup.
5. Add the Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely, making the soup creamy and flavorful.
6. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Here are some extra tips to help make this soup as delicious as possible:
- Cook the Pasta Just Right: Since the pasta will continue to soften in the hot soup, avoid overcooking it. Check it a minute or two before it’s al dente.
- Gradually Add Cheese: Stir in the cheese slowly to prevent it from clumping and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and other vegetables will make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour to the milk mixture. For a thinner soup, add a bit more broth.
Variations to Try
This Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is flexible, so you can switch things up based on your preferences or dietary needs:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, peas, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
- Swap Proteins: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
- Cheese Variations: Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well with Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can make it a complete meal with a few simple sides:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh salad balances out the richness of the soup.
- Pickles: Add a crunchy, tangy side that complements the cheeseburger flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This soup is also great for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes well, so you can enjoy it later. Freeze in individual portions for convenience.
- Reheat: For the best results, reheat on the stovetop, adding a little broth or milk as needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate nutritional values for a hearty, filling serving of Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Calcium: 30% of the daily recommended intake
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free thickener, like cornstarch instead of flour, to make the soup gluten-free.
Can I make this soup without dairy?
For a dairy-free option, use non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives. Coconut milk or almond milk can replace the creaminess of regular milk, but they may alter the flavor slightly.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
Use ground turkey instead of beef, opt for low-fat cheeses, and replace heavy cream with additional milk or a low-fat substitute.
What other types of pasta can I use?
Feel free to substitute macaroni with small shells, rotini, or any other short pasta that you prefer.
Why You Should Make Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Tonight!
Whether you’re a fan of cheeseburgers or just looking for a new and comforting soup to try, this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is sure to satisfy. It’s full of hearty ingredients, packed with flavor, and easy to make. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and the perfect recipe for when you want a bowl of something cozy and filling.
Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a bowl of this comforting, delicious soup that brings all the flavor of a cheeseburger in a cozy, creamy form. Once you try it, Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup might just become your new go-to meal for busy nights and family dinners!
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Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Indulge in the ultimate comfort of Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, a rich, creamy, and hearty soup that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with pasta and cheese. Packed with ground beef, macaroni, fresh vegetables, and a delicious blend of cheddar and mozzarella, this soup is perfect for family dinners and cozy evenings. It’s quick to prepare, kid-friendly, and bursting with flavor. Pair it with crusty bread for the ultimate meal!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 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 soup thickens slightly.
- Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the soup is creamy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or milk to reach desired consistency.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
- Variations: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, add bell peppers or peas for extra vegetables, or use Gouda cheese for a flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Keywords: Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, cheeseburger soup, macaroni soup, creamy soup, comfort food soup, hearty soup recipes, ground beef soup
