Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – Creamy, Hearty, and Loaded with Flavor

Introduction

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of cheeseburgers, mac and cheese, and warm soup? Say hello to Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup—a creamy, cheesy, and savory one-pot meal that will warm you from the inside out. This hearty soup blends tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, rich broth, and two kinds of cheese to deliver a soul-satisfying dinner that’s perfect for cozy evenings, busy weeknights, or feeding a crowd.

It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and loaded with flavors that both kids and adults adore. Think of it as your favorite cheeseburger turned into a creamy bowl of cheesy pasta soup—comfort food at its absolute best.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2–3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. This usually takes 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the soup rich but not oily.

Step 3: Add the Liquids
Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This forms the base of your soup and gives it that creamy, comforting body.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Simmer the soup gently for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely into the soup, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

Step 6: Add Seasonings and Serve
Mix in the Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Simmer another 2 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Add a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or even a few pickles on top if you like your cheeseburger-style toppings!

Variations

• Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add crumbled cooked bacon at the end for smoky, savory depth.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Loaded Cheeseburger Style: Garnish with chopped pickles, tomatoes, or crispy fried onions.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions.
• Double Cheese: Mix in some cream cheese or Velveeta for an ultra-creamy, rich texture.

Cooking Note

For best results, serve this soup shortly after making it. As it sits, the pasta will continue to absorb liquid, which may thicken the soup. If reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread or Rolls: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the cheesy broth.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness.
• Crackers: Serve with buttery crackers or oyster crackers for crunch.
• Garnish Ideas: Top with shredded cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese—it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
• Stir frequently while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking or scorching.
• Don’t overcook the pasta, especially if you plan to save leftovers.
• Use whole milk for a richer soup, or 2% for a lighter option.
• Want it thicker? Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water) before adding the cheese.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 29g
• Sodium: 870mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and cheese types used.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but keep in mind the pasta will absorb more liquid as it sits. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with additional broth or milk.

Can I freeze this soup?
It’s not ideal for freezing, as the cheese and pasta may change texture. If you want to freeze it, leave out the pasta and cheese and add them fresh when reheating.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter version of the soup.

What kind of mustard works best?
Yellow mustard is great for a classic cheeseburger flavor, but Dijon or spicy brown mustard can add extra depth.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes—peas, corn, diced tomatoes, or spinach can be added without changing the core flavor.

Conclusion

This Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. It brings together all the savory satisfaction of a cheeseburger and the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese, all in one delicious bowl. Fast, flavorful, and filling, it’s the kind of meal that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re feeding your family or just craving something warm and cozy, this soup is bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Print