There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. Imagine creamy goodness, tender pasta, and savory ground beef all mingling together in a symphony of flavors that feels like a hug from Grandma. This dish is the culinary equivalent of snuggling up with your favorite blanket on a chilly evening.
As I stir the pot, I can’t help but reminisce about the countless nights gathered around the kitchen table with my family, laughter mingling with the aroma of this delicious soup. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings and promises an explosion of flavor that will dance on your taste buds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is incredibly easy to whip up after a long day
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a hearty dish that appeals to everyone
- Its creamy texture and vibrant colors make it visually enticing on any dining table
- Perfect for cold nights or casual get-togethers, this soup is versatile enough to customize based on your pantry staples
I remember the first time I made this soup; my kids couldn’t get enough of it. Their delighted faces as they slurped up every last drop were priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to cut down on excess fat while maintaining rich flavor.
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Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for that classic cheeseburger vibe, but feel free to swap with any pasta you fancy.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor; grate it yourself for better melting.
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Onion: A sweet onion adds depth; cook until translucent for maximum flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and taste; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add acidity and balance; choose fire-roasted for extra smokiness.
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Milk or Cream: Adds creaminess; adjust based on how rich you want the soup.
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Spices (Paprika, Oregano): These enhance flavor complexity; feel free to experiment with your favorites!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic—about 30 seconds should do it.
Brown the Beef: Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in diced tomatoes along with their juices and pour in beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil to combine those flavors beautifully.
Toss in Macaroni Pasta: Once boiling, add macaroni pasta. Stir occasionally while cooking according to package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes until al dente.
Stir in Creaminess and Cheese: Reduce heat to low, then gradually stir in milk or cream followed by shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until melted into gooey perfection!
Season and Serve!: Taste your creation! Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper as needed before ladling into bowls. Enjoy warm while it’s still bubbling!
This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is not just food; it’s an experience—a joyous blend of flavors that brings everyone together at the dinner table. So go ahead, give it a try! You won’t regret diving into this comforting bowl of cheesy goodness!
You Must Know
- Cheeseburger macaroni soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish, making it creamy and comforting
- The combination of flavors creates a savory aroma that fills your kitchen, ensuring every spoonful is a warm hug
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, then stir in the onions and garlic. While they cook, boil the pasta to perfection and add it just before serving for that al dente bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or tofu for a lighter version. Toss in some extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to bring back its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamy cheeseburger macaroni soup, don’t skip adding cream cheese
- It elevates the soup’s texture and richness immensely
- Keep stirring to prevent sticking and ensure an even cook throughout the dish
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile beautifully
Sometimes I chuckle when I think about that one time my friends declared my cheeseburger macaroni soup was “life-changing.” Who knew comfort food could spark such joy?
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta in cheeseburger macaroni soup?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber without compromising taste.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian option.
What toppings pair well with cheeseburger macaroni soup?
Top with shredded cheese, green onions, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy textures with savory ground beef and tender macaroni in a delightful symphony of flavors. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, offering a warm hug in a bowl that everyone will love. Easy to make and customizable based on your pantry staples, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and brown for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and pour in the beef broth; bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Reduce heat to low; stir in milk or cream followed by shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
