What’s better than a hearty bowl of cheeseburger macaroni soup on a chilly day? This creamy, cheesy, and beefy soup is a comforting meal that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender pasta in a rich broth. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
For more comforting dinner ideas, you might also like this Chicken Pot Pie in Popovers recipe, which combines flaky pastry with a rich, savory filling.
Introduction to Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
If you love cheeseburgers and mac and cheese, why not combine the two into a cozy soup? This dish brings together the best of both worlds — the savory, beefy flavors of a burger and the cheesy, comforting vibes of macaroni. The result? A creamy, hearty soup that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Cheeseburger macaroni soup is also incredibly versaBtile. You can tweak the recipe to fit your preferences, whether you like it spicy, extra cheesy, or even a little healthier. And don’t worry — I’ll walk you through all the steps to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time.
“There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of cheesy, hearty soup on a cold day.” 🍲
What Is Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup?
You might be wondering, what exactly is cheeseburger macaroni soup? Simply put, it’s a creamy, cheesy soup made with ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a cheese-based broth. It has all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger — juicy beef, melted cheese, and even a hint of ketchup and mustard if you like — but served up in a warm, comforting bowl.
The History of Cheeseburger-Inspired Soups
The idea of turning cheeseburger flavors into a soup might sound modern, but it actually dates back to the comfort food revolution of the mid-20th century. Home cooks have always been looking for ways to turn classic meals into one-pot dishes, and cheeseburger soup is a perfect example of that.
While the traditional cheeseburger soup uses potatoes as a base, cheeseburger macaroni soup takes it a step further by adding pasta to the mix, making it even heartier and more filling.
Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite
This soup has become a family favorite for several reasons:
- It’s a one-pot meal: Less mess, fewer dishes, and easy cleanup.
- It’s customizable: You can adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.
- It’s comforting: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of cheesy soup to make you feel better on a cold day.
Plus, it’s kid-friendly! If your kids love mac and cheese and burgers, they’ll devour this soup.
📝 Fun Fact: “Cheeseburger macaroni soup is also known as ‘hamburger macaroni soup’ or ‘cheesy beef noodle soup’ in different regions.”
Ingredients for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Let’s talk ingredients! You don’t need anything fancy to make cheeseburger macaroni soup — just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
Essential Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef: The base of your soup.
- Macaroni pasta: Any small pasta shape works, but macaroni is the classic choice.
- Cheddar cheese: For that rich, cheesy flavor.
- Beef broth: To build a flavorful soup base.
- Onion and garlic: For added depth of flavor.
- Butter and flour: To make a roux that thickens the soup.
- Milk or heavy cream: For creaminess.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder.
Want to make your soup even more special? Try pairing it with this Crawfish Cornbread Recipe for a unique Southern twist.
Choosing the Right Type of Ground Beef
For the best flavor, use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). The fat adds richness and depth to the soup. If you prefer a leaner option, you can go with 9B0/10, but be sure to add a little extra butter or oil to compensate for the lost fat.
📝 Pro Tip: “For a healthier option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.”
Best Cheeses to Use for a Creamy Texture
While cheddar cheese is the most popular choice for cheeseburger macaroni soup, you can mix things up by adding other cheeses:
- Monterey Jack: Adds a creamy, mild flavor.
- Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick.
- Velveeta: For an ultra-smooth, creamy texture.
Pasta Options: What Works Best?
While macaroni is the traditional choice, you can use other types of small pasta, such as:
- Elbow macaroni
- Shells
- Rotini
- Ditalini
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente before adding it to the soup to prevent it from getting mushy.
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
This cheeseburger macaroni soup recipe is easy to follow and delivers a hearty, cheesy, comforting bowl of goodness. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Preparing the Ground Beef Base
Start by preparing the base of your soup — the ground beef and aromatics.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 diced onion to the pot.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute.
📝 Pro Tip: “For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to your beef while it cooks.”
Once your beef mixture is ready, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Making the Cheesy Broth
The cheesy broth is what gives this soup its signature creamy texture and rich flavor.
- In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in 4 cups of beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Add 2 cups of milk or heavy cream for creaminess.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Melt butter in the pot, stir in flour to make a roux, and gradually add beef broth and milk to create a creamy, cheesy broth.
Looking for more cheesy recipes? You’ll love this Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust for a low-carb, high-protein option.
🧀 Chef’s Tip: “Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, creamier soup. Pre-shredded cheese can make the soup gritty.”
Step 3: Adding the Pasta for the Perfect Texture
Next, it’s time to add the macaroni pasta.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Add 1 ½ cups of uncooked macaroni pasta.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Add macaroni pasta and cook until tender. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, creamy finish.
For more ideas on what to serve with your soup, check out Things to Eat with Chicken Salad for inspiration.
📝 Pro Tip: “For an even heartier soup, add diced potatoes or carrots along with the pasta.”
Step 4: Final Touches — Seasonings and Toppings
Once your pasta is cooked, it’s time to season the soup to perfection.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of paprika.
- For a classic cheeseburger flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon of ketchup and 1 teaspoon of mustard.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.
🍔 Fun Twist: “Top your soup with crumbled bacon, pickles, and even a drizzle of ketchup for a true cheeseburger experience.”
Serving Suggestions
Serve your cheeseburger macaroni soup with:
- Crusty bread or garlic bread
- A fresh side salad
- Pickles or jalapeños for a tangy kick
Common Problems and Solutions When Making Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Even with the best recipes, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some common problems and solutions to help you make the perfect cheeseburger macaroni soup every time.
Problem 1: Soup Is Too Watery
Nobody wants a watery soup when they’re craving something rich and creamy.
Why It Happens:
- Too much broth or liquid
- Not enough thickening agents
Solution:
- Reduce the liquid: Let the soup simmer uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- Add more roux: In a separate pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and stir in 1 tablespoon of flour. Cook for a minute, then add it to the soup to thicken it.
📝 Pro Tip: “For an extra creamy soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded cheese.”
Problem 2: Cheese Separates or Becomes Gritty
The cheese is supposed to make the soup creamy, not gritty!
Why It Happens:
- Using pre-shredded cheese
- Adding cheese to boiling liquid
Solution:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest texture.
- Lower the heat before adding the cheese to prevent separation.
🧀 Chef’s Tip: “Always add cheese slowly and stir constantly for a smooth, creamy broth.”
Problem 3: Pasta Is Overcooked or Mushy
Overcooked pasta can ruin the texture of your soup.
Why It Happens:
- Adding pasta too early
- Leaving the soup on the heat too long
Solution:
- Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
- If cooking pasta in the soup, time it carefully and serve the soup as soon as the pasta is ready.
Flavor Variations for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
One of the best things about cheeseburger macaroni soup is how versatile it is. You can customize the flavors to match your taste preferences or switch things up for different occasions.
Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup 🥓
Love bacon cheeseburgers? Add crispy bacon bits to your soup for a smoky, salty twist.
How to Make It:
- Cook the bacon separately until crispy.
- Crumble the bacon and sprinkle it on top of the soup just before serving.
- For an extra kick, stir bacon grease into the cheese broth for added flavor.
📝 Pro Tip: “A dash of liquid smoke can enhance the smoky flavor of the bacon.”
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup with Jalapeños 🌶️
If you like a little heat, make your soup spicy by adding jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
How to Make It:
- Dice fresh jalapeños and add them to the ground beef while it cooks.
- Stir in a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for more spice.
- Top with sliced jalapeños for garnish.
🔥 Fun Fact: “Pepper Jack cheese is a great addition if you want to make your soup spicier.”
Vegetarian Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup 🌱
Looking for a meat-free version? You can easily make vegetarian cheeseburger macaroni soup by swapping out the ground beef.
How to Make It:
- Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Add extra veggies like diced tomatoes, carrots, or celery for more flavor.
📝 Pro Tip: “For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives.”
Healthier Alternatives for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Want to make your cheeseburger macaroni soup a bit healthier? Here are some tips to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor.
Using Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef 🦃
One simple swap is to use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. It’s lower in fat but still delivers that hearty flavor.
How to Make It Healthier:
- Use lean ground turkey (93% lean) for the best results.
- Season the meat with extra spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to enhance the flavor.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Variations 🥦
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can adjust this soup to fit your nutritional needs.
Tips for a Low-Carb Version:
- Replace macaroni pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
- Use heavy cream instead of milk to increase the fat content.
- Add extra cheese to make it more filling.
Gluten-Free Macaroni Options 🌾
If you’re gluten-intolerant, you can still enjoy this delicious soup by using gluten-free pasta.
Best Gluten-Free Pasta Options:
- Chickpea pasta
- Lentil pasta
- Brown rice pasta
Make sure to cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup right before serving to avoid mushiness.
Storing and Reheating Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your soup so it stays delicious.
How to Store Leftovers Properly
- Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- If you plan to store it for longer, freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips to Keep the Texture Perfect
When reheating your soup, follow these tips to maintain its creamy texture:
- Stovetop Method: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating.
- Microwave Method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
- If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions people have about making cheeseburger macaroni soup.
Can I Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cheeseburger macaroni soup is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare the soup, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
What Type of Cheese Works Best for This Soup?
The best cheese for cheeseburger macaroni soup is sharp cheddar because it provides a rich, tangy flavor. You can also use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even Velveeta for a creamier texture.
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Separating?
To avoid gritty or separated cheese in your soup:
- Use freshly shredded cheese (not pre-shredded).
- Lower the heat before adding the cheese.
- Stir the cheese in slowly until fully melted.
Can I Freeze Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup?
Yes! Cheeseburger macaroni soup freezes well. Freeze it without the pasta, as pasta can become mushy after thawing. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating the soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
To make spicy cheeseburger macaroni soup, try these options:
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Use Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Conclusion
There you have it! Cheeseburger macaroni soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or lazy Sundays. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up.
Looking for more delicious recipes? Try this Ginger Chicken Noodle Soup for another cozy, comforting meal idea.
“Cooking is more than just food — it’s about creating moments and memories.”