Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hearty soup is quick to prepare, customizable, and beloved by kids and adults alike. It offers a complete, filling meal with the flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy soup form.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground Beef (1 lb)
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
- Onion, Carrot, and Celery (diced)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Beef Broth (4 cups)
- Elbow Macaroni (2 cups)
- Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheeses
- Milk and Heavy Cream
- Flour (2 tbsp)
- Smoked Paprika, Mustard Powder, Salt, and Pepper
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Brown beef with olive oil in a large pot.
- Add vegetables and cook until softened.
- Add broth and macaroni, cook until pasta is al dente.
- Whisk milk, cream, and flour together and add to soup.
- Stir in cheese and seasoning until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Serves: 6
- Total Time: 40 minutes (10 minutes prep, 30 minutes cook)
Variations
- Spicy: Add hot sauce or cayenne.
- Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or peas.
- Lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken.
Storage/Reheating
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop.
FAQs
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch as a thickener.
Can I make this soup without dairy?
Yes, use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use lean turkey, low-fat cheese, and replace cream with more milk.
What types of pasta can I use?
You can substitute macaroni with small shells, rotini, or other short pasta.
How do I thicken the soup?
Add an extra tablespoon of flour if you’d like a thicker texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding peas, corn, or diced bell peppers.
How can I add more flavor?
Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or increase the seasoning.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping and reheating.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, though beef broth gives a deeper flavor.
Conclusion
Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful comfort food, combining the rich flavors of a cheeseburger with a creamy, savory soup. It’s easy, versatile, and sure to please everyone at the table!
Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy, comforting soup. With ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese, it’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or chilly nights. This easy, customizable recipe is loved by both kids and adults alike, offering a filling meal that’s ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef (1 lb)
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
- Onion, Carrot, and Celery (diced)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Beef Broth (4 cups)
- Elbow Macaroni (2 cups)
- Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
- Milk (1 cup)
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup)
- Flour (2 tbsp)
- Smoked Paprika (1 tsp)
- Mustard Powder (1/2 tsp)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and flour until smooth. Pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm.
Notes
- Spicy Option: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
- Lighter Version: Use ground turkey or chicken, and opt for low-fat cheese to reduce the fat content.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch instead of flour.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Family Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
