Macaroni cheeseburger soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the best flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy, cheesy soup and tender pasta. This one pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it’s quick to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and fills the whole family with satisfying, nostalgic flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded American cheese
- 1 large carrot, finely diced
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional garnish: chopped pickles, chopped fresh parsley, or crispy bacon bits
Instructions
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and once shimmering, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté with the beef until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the milk and heavy cream. Slowly add the shredded cheddar and American cheeses in batches, stirring continuously until fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. If the soup becomes too thick, stir in a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of chopped pickles, fresh parsley, or crispy bacon bits for an extra cheeseburger touch.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Cheese choices: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but mixing in American cheese helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture. You can substitute with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- Pasta timing: Add the macaroni only once the broth is boiling and watch closely to avoid overcooking. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and break down in the soup.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free. Tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce are usually safe but check labels.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the creamy texture and add satisfying crunch. For a fun twist, serve with classic cheeseburger toppings on the side—like pickles, diced tomatoes, or chopped onions—so everyone can customize their bowl.
Variations
You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian take, omit the meat and use vegetable broth, adding sautéed mushrooms or textured vegetable protein for texture. To make it extra cheesy, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a handful of grated Parmesan just before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover macaroni cheeseburger soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can cause the dairy to separate and the pasta to become overly soft. For best results, reheat only the portion you plan to eat to maintain freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-cooked pasta instead of uncooked?
- It’s best to cook the pasta directly in the soup broth for optimal flavor and texture. Adding pre-cooked pasta may result in mushiness since the soup requires simmering time. If using leftover pasta, add it at the very end to warm through only.
- What if I don’t have heavy cream?
- You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, but the soup will be less rich and creamy. Another option is to mix milk with a tablespoon of melted butter to mimic some of the creaminess.
- How can I make this soup ahead of time?
- You can prepare the base (browned beef, sautéed vegetables, broth) a day ahead and refrigerate it. Add the pasta and cheese just before serving to keep the pasta from overcooking and the cheese fresh.
- Is this soup freezer-friendly?
- This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change due to the dairy and pasta. If freezing, omit the pasta and add it fresh when reheating. Freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Can I add vegetables like corn or peas?
- Yes, adding vegetables like corn or peas can add sweetness and texture. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they remain tender but not overcooked.
- What’s the best way to prevent the soup from becoming greasy?
- Use lean ground beef or drain excess fat after browning. Also, avoid adding too much oil at the start. Skimming off any fat that rises to the surface before adding cheese can help keep the soup balanced.
This one pot macaroni cheeseburger soup is a crowd-pleasing, simple dinner that brings the flavors of a favorite sandwich into a warm, cheesy bowl. With minimal prep and easy ingredients, it’s a perfect recipe for busy cooks craving comfort food without fuss.
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