If you’re a fan of comfort food, you’ve probably enjoyed both macaroni and cheese and a juicy cheeseburger in some form. But have you ever thought about combining these two iconic dishes into one delicious, hearty meal? That’s exactly what macaroni cheeseburger soup does. This creamy, flavorful soup is perfect for cozy nights at home, casual get-togethers, or when you simply crave something that’s filling and indulgent.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about this amazing soup, from its origins and key ingredients to step-by-step preparation. We’ll also explore some variations and tips to make sure you can customize the recipe to suit your taste. Whether you’re a soup lover or just a fan of comfort food, you’re sure to love this macaroni cheeseburger soup.
What is Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
Macaroni cheeseburger soup is a creamy, savory soup that blends all the best elements of two beloved dishes: macaroni and cheese and cheeseburgers. It’s a soup that captures the richness of sharp cheddar cheese, the heartiness of ground beef, and the comforting warmth of macaroni pasta, all brought together in a creamy, flavorful broth.
This soup is perfect for those who love a good burger but are looking for a twist. It’s easy to make in one pot, and the ingredients are simple and likely already in your kitchen. Whether you want a quick family meal or something more indulgent for a special night, this soup fits the bill.
For more hearty meal ideas, you might want to try this chicken tacos recipe guide for another comfort food favorite.
Why Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
The appeal of macaroni cheeseburger soup lies in its versatility and ease. It combines the rich flavors of cheeseburgers—including the savory beef, creamy cheese, and hearty buns—into a soup that’s both comforting and filling. The macaroni adds a delightful texture and familiar taste, making this soup a hit with both kids and adults.
It’s a great way to use simple ingredients, and it’s highly customizable. Whether you want to add bacon for a bacon cheeseburger twist, throw in some diced tomatoes for extra flavor, or make a low-carb version with cauliflower, this soup allows for endless variations. Keep reading to find out how to make this dish and discover some of the best ways to customize it.
Key Ingredients for Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Before diving into the recipe, let’s break down the key ingredients that make this dish so delicious:
1. Ground Beef
- The star of the soup, ground beef adds richness and hearty flavor. You can also swap in ground turkey for a leaner version or even use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
2. Elbow Macaroni
- Classic elbow macaroni is the pasta of choice for this soup, but you can substitute other small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini.
3. Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Sharp cheddar gives the soup its signature cheesy flavor. It’s best to shred the cheese yourself to ensure it melts smoothly.
4. Heavy Cream
- To achieve a rich, creamy texture, use heavy cream. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the soup won’t be quite as rich.
5. Mirepoix (Onions, Carrots, Celery)
- This trio of vegetables—onions, carrots, and celery—forms the base of many soups and stews. It adds a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish.
6. Chicken Broth
- Chicken broth serves as the liquid base for the soup. You can use homemade broth for extra flavor or opt for store-bought if you’re short on time.
7. Seasonings
- Simple seasonings like oregano, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper bring out the best flavors in this soup. If you want a bit of heat, you can add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s dive into how to make this delicious macaroni cheeseburger soup. It’s a one-pot meal that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and crumbled. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside, leaving the fat in the pot for added flavor.
2. Cook the Mirepoix
Add the remaining butter to the pot and let it melt. Toss in the onions, carrots, and celery and sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Make a Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. This creates a roux, which helps thicken the soup. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.
4. Add the Chicken Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine with the roux. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Cook the Macaroni
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well. Cook the pasta directly in the soup for about 7-8 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente.
6. Stir in the Cheese and Cream
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
7. Combine and Serve
Return the browned beef to the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to ensure the flavors are well-blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with garnishes like shredded cheddar, croutons, or diced pickles.
For more cheesy inspiration, check out this pappardelle with homemade pasta sauce recipe, which also highlights how to blend comfort and flavor in one dish.
Tips for Making the Best Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Shred Your Own Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese may seem convenient, but it often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture, shred your own sharp cheddar—it’s worth the extra few minutes of prep.
Add Cheese Gradually
When adding cheese to the soup, do it gradually and stir constantly to prevent clumping. If you dump in too much cheese at once, it may not melt evenly.
Keep the Heat Low
To avoid grainy or curdled soup, make sure the heat is low when adding the cream and cheese. High heat can cause dairy products to separate, resulting in an unpleasant texture.
Adjust the Thickness
If the soup is too thick, simply add more chicken broth or a splash of milk or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken up.
Creative Variations on Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
The beauty of macaroni cheeseburger soup is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are a few creative variations to try:
Bacon Cheeseburger Soup
Add crumbled crispy bacon to the soup for a bacon cheeseburger twist. You can also sprinkle cooked bacon on top of each serving for extra crunch.
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup
If you like a bit of heat, substitute some of the cheddar with pepper jack cheese and add a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Low-Carb Cheeseburger Soup
Looking to cut back on carbs? Swap the macaroni for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. These low-carb options still provide plenty of texture and absorb the flavors of the soup beautifully.
Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or black beans. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly base.
For another cozy, creamy dish, try this cheesy potatoes recipe—perfect for pairing with your soup!
Making Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Ahead of Time
Macaroni cheeseburger soup is an excellent meal to prepare ahead of time. Whether you’re making it for meal prep or want to have some ready for a quick dinner later in the week, here’s how to store and reheat the soup without losing its creamy texture.
Storing the Soup
Once the soup has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The macaroni will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a bit more broth or cream when reheating.
Freezing the Soup
If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to leave out the pasta. Cook the soup base (without the macaroni) and freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, reheat it, and cook fresh pasta to stir in before serving.
Reheating Tips
Reheat the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Made Of?
Macaroni cheeseburger soup is made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy broth base, usually made with chicken broth and heavy cream. Additional ingredients like mirepoix (onion, carrots, celery) and seasonings like oregano and thyme enhance the flavor.
Can I Make Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop first. Then transfer everything (except the cheese and cream) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the cheese and cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How Do I Prevent My Soup from Becoming Too Thick?
As the soup sits, the pasta will continue to absorb liquid, causing the soup to thicken. To prevent this, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. You can also add more broth or cream when reheating to thin the soup if needed.
Can I Freeze Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the macaroni. The pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated, so cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve. The soup base can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Macaroni cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort food for when you’re craving something warm, hearty, and delicious. This creamy, savory soup combines the best elements of a cheeseburger and macaroni and cheese, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With endless variations and tips for customization, you can make this dish your own, whether you’re adding bacon, making it spicy, or opting for a low-carb version.
For more delicious comfort food ideas, consider serving this soup with a side of French bread or finishing off your meal with a slice of key lime cake. No matter how you enjoy it, macaroni cheeseburger soup is sure to be a hit!