Imagine diving into a bowl of warm, creamy comfort that tastes just like your favorite diner cheeseburger, but in a soup form—this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe is exactly that kind of cozy indulgence. It combines juicy seasoned beef, tender macaroni, sharp cheeses, and a swirl of creamy broth that pulls it all together into a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. From the first spoonful, you’ll understand why this soup quickly becomes a household favorite, perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave a nostalgic, satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, familiar, and each plays a crucial role in building the soup’s rich flavor and luscious texture. From the savory ground beef that forms the heart of the dish to the sharp cheddar that melts into creamy bliss, every element adds its own magic to this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe.
- Olive oil: The perfect base to brown the beef and sauté aromatics without overpowering the flavors.
- Lean ground beef: Brings hearty meaty goodness and the classic cheeseburger flavor.
- Yellow onions, diced: Adds sweetness and depth, softening beautifully as they cook.
- Chopped garlic: Infuses a warm, aromatic punch that melds perfectly with beef.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup, giving it that luscious, velvety texture.
- Chicken broth: The savory liquid base that carries all the flavors together.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and that creamy mouthfeel you crave in a cheeseburger soup.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient.
- Onion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor without extra texture.
- Italian seasoning: Offers a blend of herbs to add complexity and warmth.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky hint reminiscent of bacon or grilled beef.
- Matchstick carrots: Adds a pop of color and gentle sweetness for balance.
- Uncooked macaroni: The beloved pasta that absorbs all those cheeseburger flavors perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar: The star cheese that melts into gooey, sharp indulgence.
- Shredded parmesan: Adds a nutty, salty boost that deepens the cheese profile.
- Dijon mustard: Optional, but it provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness wonderfully.
- Chopped pickles: If you love the classic cheeseburger tang, this is a must-add ingredient.
- Cayenne pepper: A pinch for those who like a little background heat to enliven the soup.
- Crumbled bacon & sesame seeds: For topping, adding texture and a smoky finishing touch.
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown Your Beef and Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. This first step creates that rich, meaty base crucial to your soup. Next, toss in the diced onions and chopped garlic, cooking until they soften and release their sweet, fragrant aroma. This combination lays down the soulful flavor foundation.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Soup Base
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef and onion mixture and cook while stirring for about two minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and helps thicken your soup later. Gradually stir in the chicken broth bit by bit, which will smoothly combine with the flour. Follow this by pouring in the heavy cream; keep stirring until the mixture is silky smooth and ready for the next flavor boost.
Step 3: Season and Add Carrots
Now, it’s time to bring in the bold seasonings that make this soup sing. Add salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Toss in the matchstick carrots, whose slight sweetness balances the savory, cheesy elements beautifully. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together while the carrots begin to soften.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked macaroni directly into your simmering soup. This step is brilliant because the pasta cooks right in the flavorful broth, soaking up the essence of the soup. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the macaroni reaches the perfect tender-but-not-mushy texture, ensuring every bite is just right.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses and Optional Mix-Ins
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese until they melt seamlessly into the soup. This is the moment when the soup transforms into a heavenly, cheesy delight. If you’re a fan of that tangy cheeseburger twist, mix in the Dijon mustard and chopped pickles now. These additions add a bright spark that makes each spoonful irresistible.
Step 6: Serve Hot with Your Favorite Toppings
Your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy! Ladle it into bowls and sprinkle with crumbled bacon and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch. This final touch elevates the dish from great to unforgettable.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can add your own flair. Crumbled bacon adds smoky crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy soup. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nutty flavor and a little texture surprise. Fresh chopped pickles on top enhance that signature cheeseburger tang, making every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of cheesy broth. A side of crispy sweet potato fries can add a fun and casual twist reminiscent of classic burger joints.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or cozy night in, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a playful, edible presentation. You can also turn it into a layered dip for game day by layering this soup with crushed cheese-flavored chips and extra shredded cheese on top. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts to whatever mood you’re in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps incredibly well in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain the fresh flavors and creamy texture. Before refrigerating, let the soup cool slightly to avoid condensation and preserve its quality.
Freezing
While you can freeze this soup, do so with care because the cream and cheese may slightly separate upon thawing. Freeze in a sealed container, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir well before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to keep the cheese from clumping and to restore that smooth creaminess. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up until it reaches your perfect sipping consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional and holds the soup well, small pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni work fantastically. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some pastas cook quicker than others.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and it still delivers that hearty, cozy vibe without meat.
How do I make this soup less rich?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream to lighten the dish. Using less cheese or choosing a milder cheese option also reduces richness without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Definitely! It tastes even better when flavors meld overnight. Prepare it fully, cool completely, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving, stirring well to bring back that creamy consistency.
What toppings work best for this soup?
Bacon bits, sliced green onions, extra shredded cheddar, or even crushed potato chips make fantastic toppings. They add a satisfying crunch and layer of flavor that complements the creamy soup.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been hunting for a dish that wraps up the fun of a cheeseburger and the comfort of creamy soup in one bowl, this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe is your new go-to. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of delicious layers that will have you coming back for seconds—trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Try it out and watch it become a family favorite no matter the season.
Print
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender macaroni in a creamy, cheesy broth. This recipe features browned ground beef, onions, garlic, and a blend of seasonings simmered with macaroni pasta and finished with a generous amount of cheddar and parmesan cheese, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 lbs lean ground beef
- 2 large yellow onions, diced
- 2 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 3 tsp salt
- 3 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 cups matchstick carrots
- 3 cups uncooked macaroni
- 6 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅔ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup chopped pickles
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
Toppings
- Crumbled bacon
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Cook Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, add the diced onions and chopped garlic, cooking until the onions become soft and translucent.
- Add Flour and Liquids: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps, followed by the heavy cream. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
- Season and Simmer: Add salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and matchstick carrots to the pot. Stir well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld and the carrots to soften.
- Cook the Macaroni: Add the uncooked macaroni to the simmering soup. Cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender but still holds its shape.
- Incorporate Cheese and Final Ingredients: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the soup is creamy. Mix in the Dijon mustard and chopped pickles if using, which add a tangy twist and depth of flavor.
- Serve with Toppings: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon and sesame seeds for added texture and a burst of flavor. Serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a slightly spicier kick, adjust or increase the cayenne pepper according to preference.
- Using lean ground beef keeps the soup from becoming greasy while maintaining rich flavor.
- Dijon mustard and pickles are optional but recommended for authentic cheeseburger flavor.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
- Crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
