When chilly days call for warm, comforting meals, this cheeseburger macaroni soup recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delicious twist on classic cheeseburgers, transformed into a creamy, hearty soup that’s easy to make and perfect for cozy nights at home.
You’ll love how the savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich cheese blend together in every spoonful. This cheeseburger macaroni soup is an ideal recipe to satisfy those comfort food cravings with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Combines all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, hearty soup.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved comfort food.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Customizable with your favorite cheese or add-ins.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make a rich and flavorful cheeseburger macaroni soup that’s sure to please.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 medium
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe Easy Cozy Comfort Food to Make
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon; drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in the butter, then sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth and milk, ensuring no lumps, then add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then add the uncooked elbow macaroni; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until pasta is tender, about 12 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bold, tangy flavor that melts well.
- Don’t skip the roux step with flour and butter; it gives the soup a perfect creamy texture.
- Simmer the soup gently to avoid overcooking the pasta and keep it tender but not mushy.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, add a little more flour or reduce the broth slightly.
- For extra cheesiness, sprinkle more cheese on top right before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cheeseburger macaroni soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from sticking or separating.
You can also freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much during storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can substitute with small shells, ditalini, or even small penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to keep the pasta tender.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, cheeseburger macaroni soup freezes well. Cheese-based soups can sometimes change texture after freezing, so thaw gently and reheat slowly, stirring often to maintain creaminess.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The flavor will differ, but it will still be delicious and comforting.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a bit of heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the onions and garlic. You can also top each serving with hot sauce for an extra kick.