Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup combines everything people love about a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of a warm, creamy soup. I often prepare this dish on colder evenings when a hearty, filling meal is needed without much effort. The flavors are familiar and nostalgic, yet the soup format makes it feel fresh and satisfying. Tender ground beef, soft macaroni, and a rich, cheesy broth come together in one pot, making cleanup simple and stress-free. I tested this recipe using both elbow macaroni and small shells, and elbows remain my favorite because they cook evenly and hold the creamy broth beautifully. This soup is especially popular with families, as it delivers comfort food flavors in a form that feels cozy and inviting. It is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and comforting soup that combines all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with tender macaroni in a rich, cheesy broth—perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (dry)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to coat.
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add milk, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add elbow macaroni and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra cheesiness, add an additional 1/2 cup of cheddar.
- Ground turkey can be substituted for beef.
- Stir frequently after adding pasta to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef forms the base of the soup and provides the classic cheeseburger flavor. Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease while still delivering richness.
Elbow macaroni gives the soup its hearty texture. The pasta absorbs the savory broth and adds substance to every spoonful.
Onion adds depth and a slightly sweet note once softened. Finely diced onion blends seamlessly into the soup.
Garlic enhances the savory profile and complements the beef and cheese. Freshly minced garlic offers the best flavor.
Beef broth creates the foundation of the soup, adding richness and body. Low-sodium broth allows better control of seasoning.
Milk contributes creaminess and balances the savory components without making the soup overly heavy.
Cheddar cheese delivers the unmistakable cheeseburger taste. Sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor that melts smoothly into the soup.
Tomato paste adds subtle acidity and depth, mimicking the flavor profile of a cheeseburger with condiments.
Paprika gives gentle warmth and enhances the overall color of the soup.
Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
Directions
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Mix in the tomato paste and paprika, stirring well to coat the beef and vegetables.
Pour in the beef broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add the elbow macaroni, reduce the heat, and simmer until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and the soup becomes creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately four generous servings. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking requires around 30 minutes. The total time from start to finish is roughly 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup as needed. Stir frequently to maintain a smooth texture.
Variations and Customizations
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is highly adaptable and can be adjusted to suit different preferences. I often add diced pickles just before serving for a subtle tang that mimics a classic cheeseburger topping. For extra richness, a small amount of cream cheese can be stirred in with the cheddar. If you prefer a lighter version, ground turkey works well as a substitute for beef. You can also add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables without altering the flavor too much. I have tried this recipe with smoked cheddar, which adds depth and a slightly bolder taste that works beautifully in colder months.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This soup is high in protein and calcium thanks to the beef and cheese. While it is indulgent, pairing it with a green salad can create a more balanced meal. It is not suitable for dairy-free diets without substitutions.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cheese Melting Technique
Always lower the heat before adding cheese to prevent curdling or graininess.
Perfect Pasta Texture
Stir occasionally while simmering to keep pasta from sticking to the pot.
Flavor Balance
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as cheese and broth salt levels vary.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, small shells or ditalini work well, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but the pasta may absorb more liquid. Add broth when reheating.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but mild cheddar also works.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly, but pre-shredded can be used.
How do I thicken the soup?
Simmer slightly longer or add a small amount of extra cheese.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, carrots, celery, or peas are excellent additions.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and familiar.
What pairs well with this soup?
Crusty bread or a simple side salad complements it well.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is a comforting, family-friendly recipe that brings familiar flavors together in a warm, creamy bowl. With simple ingredients and one-pot preparation, it is an easy yet satisfying meal that fits perfectly into busy schedules. This soup is sure to become a regular favorite for anyone who enjoys classic comfort food with a cozy twist.
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