As I stirred the bubbling pot, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminiscent of lively family dinners around the table. This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup beautifully combines the comforting flavors of your favorite cheeseburger with the heartwarming appeal of a creamy soup. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pot meal is perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something fulfilling without a lot of fuss. Not only is it family-friendly, but it also offers a world of customization—from gluten-free to vegetarian options—making it a versatile delight for everyone at your table. Are you curious to find out how this cozy dish can become the star of your kitchen? Why Is Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup a Must-Try? Comforting Simplicity: This one-pot meal is a breeze to make, perfect for busy nights or relaxed weekends. Customizable Options: Whether you prefer gluten-free or vegetarian, this recipe allows for easy adjustments to suit every dietary need. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Rich, savory cheeseburger flavors wrapped in a creamy soup create a dish that everyone will love. Quick Preparation: In just under 30 minutes, you can serve up a hearty bowl of warmth that’s perfect for the whole family. Nostalgic Appeal: Every spoonful brings back memories of cozy family dinners, making it more than just a meal, but a cherished experience. This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is sure to become a family favorite! Don’t forget to check out my tips for a quick meal to save even more time in the kitchen. Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing the meat and aromatics; feel free to swap with butter for a richer flavor. Ground Beef – The heart of the soup, delivering that classic cheeseburger flavor; try lean ground turkey for a lighter alternative. Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can make a nice substitution. Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; fresh minced works best for maximum flavor. To Thicken All-Purpose Flour – Helps create that creamy consistency; use cornstarch for a gluten-free option. Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful liquid base; vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version. Heavy Cream – Provides richness; replace with half-and-half or whole milk if preferred. For Seasoning Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences. Onion Powder – Boosts overall flavor; little goes a long way. Italian Seasoning – Adds delicious herbaceous notes; feel free to customize the amount. Paprika – Offers a mild heat and a lovely color; adjust based on your spice tolerance. To Add Texture Matchstick Carrots – Introduces crunch and nutrition; fresh or frozen are great options. Uncooked Macaroni Noodles – The heart of the dish’s texture; any small pasta shape will work well. For the Cheesy Finish Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Brings that signature cheeseburger taste; mixing different cheeses can elevate the flavor. Shredded Parmesan Cheese – Enhances richness; Pecorino Romano is a delicious substitute. Enjoy crafting this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup that’s sure to delight everyone around your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Step 1: Heat the Oil In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it shimmers. This should take about 1-2 minutes. The hot oil will create a base for sautéing, adding flavor to your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup right from the start. Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 diced yellow onion to the pot, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up the meat and allow the mixture to develop rich flavors. Step 3: Sauté the Garlic Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. The garlic will add a delicious aroma to your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning. Step 4: Incorporate the Flour Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes to coat the beef evenly. This step will create a roux, thickening the soup and giving it a creamy consistency. Step 5: Add the Broth Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly as you bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. You should see small bubbles forming after about 5 minutes, which indicates the base for your soup is coming together beautifully. Step 6: Mix in the Cream and Seasoning Once simmering, mix in 1 cup of heavy cream along with 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir well to combine all flavors and allow the mixture to bubble gently for 2 more minutes. Step 7: Incorporate the Carrots and Macaroni Add 1 cup of matchstick carrots and 1 cup of uncooked macaroni to the pot. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil for about 1 minute, ensuring the pasta begins to soften in your hearty Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. Step 8: Simmer the Soup Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pot, soaking up all the comforting flavors. Step 9: Melt the Cheese After 20 minutes, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of shredded parmesan cheese until they’re fully melted and creamy. This will enrich your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup, giving it a delightful cheesy flavor. Step 10: Serve Hot Ladle the hot Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. The warmth and creamy texture will bring comfort to your mealtime, making it a family favorite! Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists that personalize your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup experience! Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut or almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free version. Enjoy that creamy texture without the dairy! Vegetarian: Swap ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a protein-packed plant-based option. This way, you can indulge in comfort without sacrificing your dietary choices. Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition and color. These veggies not only enhance the flavor but create a vibrant presentation that livens up the soup. Spicy Kick: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to add heat to your soup. This little twist can turn your cozy bowl into a fiery delight that warms your soul. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or quinoa instead of macaroni for a gluten-free treat. You won’t even miss the regular pasta with all the rich flavors in this dish. Italian Twist: Mix in diced tomatoes or Italian sausage for a pizza-inspired flavor. This variation makes the soup even heartier and introduces those beloved Italian notes we all adore. For more ways to enhance your cooking experience, consider checking out my ideas on how to serve this delight alongside a crisp salad or crusty bread for the ultimate meal! Don’t hesitate to explore the flavors and make this dish uniquely yours. Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Perfectly Browned Beef: Ensure your ground beef is browned well before adding the flour. This step deepens the flavors, elevating your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. Stir Often: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the pot. This keeps your soup creamy and prevents any clumps. Thickening Adjustments: If reheating, adjust the soup’s thickness with extra broth or water. This will help maintain the desired creamy consistency. Cheese Timing: If freezing leftovers, add cheese to the soup after reheating to maintain its creamy texture. This simple tip keeps your soup smooth and delicious! Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and herbs. Fresh ingredients truly enhance the comforting flavors of your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to retain its creamy texture. Freezer: You can freeze the Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and remember to label the date! Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust the thickness if needed. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the soup base (without pasta and cheese) up to 24 hours ahead, then add fresh macaroni and cheese before serving for the best results. What to Serve with Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Pair your delicious soup with these comforting sides and drinks for a complete dining experience! Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, ensuring you savor every bite. Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad adds a refreshing element to your meal, complementing the richness of the soup with vibrant flavors. Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights are an irresistible pairing that enhances the already comforting vibe of the soup. Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli provides a nutritious balance to the meal, making it not only delicious but wholesome as well. Homemade Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw contrast nicely with the creaminess of the soup, adding depth to your meal. Sweet Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweet iced tea will quench your thirst and beautifully complement the savory flavors of the soup. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! These classic cookies are a beloved dessert that rounds out the comfort food experience perfectly. Pickles: Offering a zesty crunch, pickles can add a delightful bite and contrast to the creamy richness of your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. Make Ahead Options This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is an ideal choice for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort even on the busiest nights! You can prepare the soup base (without the pasta and cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the beef and aromatics, add the broth and seasonings, then store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, reheat the soup on the stovetop, add in the uncooked macaroni, and simmer until the pasta is tender. Don’t forget to stir in the cheeses at the end for that creamy finish. This make-ahead option ensures you have a delicious meal ready to go, saving you precious time when life gets hectic! Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ground beef for my soup? Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for 80/20 ground beef, which has enough fat to keep your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup rich and savory. If you’re looking for a lighter option, lean ground turkey or chicken work beautifully as alternatives. What’s the best way to store leftovers of my Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let the soup cool completely before sealing the container to retain its creamy texture. For even longer storage, consider the freezer option! Can I freeze Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup? If so, how? Yes, you can freeze this delicious soup! Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion during freezing. Make sure to label the containers with the date for easy reference. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. What if my soup is too thick after reheating? Very common! If your soup thickens too much after reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while gently stirring over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This step is essential for keeping the texture creamy and enjoyable. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Of course! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to customize the recipe. For gluten-free options, swap regular macaroni for gluten-free pasta. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or chickpeas in place of ground beef. Always check for allergens like dairy in cheeses if you or your guests have sensitivities. Can I add additional veggies to my Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup? Certainly! I often toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for an extra nutritional boost and vibrant flavor. Just chop them finely and add along with the carrots for a colorful, hearty addition! Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Your New Family Favorite Comfort Meal Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup elegantly combines the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger with a creamy soup, perfect for family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: BeefCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to swap with butter for a richer flavor.1 pound Ground Beef Try lean ground turkey for a lighter alternative.1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be a nice substitution.2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced works best for maximum flavor.To Thicken2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.4 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version.1 cup Heavy Cream Replace with half-and-half or whole milk if preferred.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.1 teaspoon Pepper1 teaspoon Onion Powder Little goes a long way.1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Feel free to customize the amount.1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust based on your spice tolerance.To Add Texture1 cup Matchstick Carrots Fresh or frozen are great options.1 cup Uncooked Macaroni Noodles Any small pasta shape will work well.For the Cheesy Finish1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Mixing different cheeses can elevate the flavor.½ cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano is a delicious substitute. Equipment Large pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Macaroni SoupIn a large pot over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it shimmers, about 1-2 minutes.Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 diced yellow onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes to coat the beef evenly.Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly as you bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.Mix in 1 cup of heavy cream along with 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.Add 1 cup of matchstick carrots and 1 cup of uncooked macaroni, increase heat, and bring to a boil for about 1 minute.Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of shredded parmesan cheese until fully melted.Ladle the hot Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best results, use fresh garlic and herbs. Adjust soup thickness with extra broth or water when reheating. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
