A savory aroma wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cozy family dinners on a chilly evening. This 30-Minute Creamy Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is my secret weapon for busy weeknights—it’s quick to whip up and delivers all the comfort food feels, making it a sure hit for everyone at the table. Packed with savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and inviting spices, this one-pot meal is as customizable as it is delicious, offering dairy-free and vegetarian options to suit any palate. Wave goodbye to the drive-thru! Ready in under 30 minutes, this hearty soup promises to bring smiles and satisfied bellies. What’s your favorite way to elevate a classic dish? Let’s dive into this recipe together!
Why is this soup a winner?
Speedy Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness ready to serve. Perfect for busy families!
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time with loved ones and less time scrubbing pots—who doesn’t love that?
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based proteins, you can easily adjust this recipe to fit your dietary needs.
Creamy Comfort: With a luxurious texture thanks to heavy cream and cheese, each spoonful will envelop you in warmth and richness—ideal for chillier nights.
Kid-Approved: It’s a comforting classic that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist; think of it as a cheeseburger you can enjoy any day of the week!
For more quick and delicious meals, check out my Pot Lasagna Soup and Thai Coconut Soup.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Adds depth of flavor; can substitute with butter for a richer taste.
- Ground Beef – Provides richness and protein; swap for ground turkey for a leaner dish.
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; diced shallots can be a great alternative.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor with a fragrant aroma; using fresh guarantees the best taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; corn starch serves as a gluten-free alternative.
For the Liquid
- Chicken Broth – Provides a savory base; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option.
- Heavy Cream – Adds a luscious creaminess; half and half or whole milk are perfect substitutes.
For the Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper – Essential to bring out the flavors; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning, Paprika – A blend to enhance overall flavor; tweak for your favorite spices.
For the Veggies & Pasta
- Carrots – Add texture and nutrition; feel free to use fresh or frozen matchstick carrots.
- Macaroni Noodles – The heartiness of the dish; replace with any small pasta shape or gluten-free pasta.
For the Cheesy Finish
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers classic cheeseburger flavor; mixing in different cheeses boosts taste.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese – Adds additional creaminess and flavor; Pecorino Romano makes a tasty substitute.
Now that you have a list of ingredients, let’s get cooking and bring this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup to life, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas and warm hearts!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Step 1: Heat Oil
In a large pot, pour in a tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready. This should take about 2 minutes. A good sizzle will greet you when you add the next ingredients, so be prepared to build that flavor base for your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup.
Step 2: Brown Beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef along with 1 diced yellow onion to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft and translucent. This caramelization brings out the sweetness of the onion, setting the stage for a rich, savory soup flavor.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. The garlic will infuse the mixture with a warm aroma that complements the beef, enhancing your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup’s delightful flavor profile.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour
Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes. This coats the beef and onions, creating a roux that will thicken your soup beautifully. You want to see everything well combined and slightly golden, a texture hinting at the creaminess to come.
Step 5: Pour in Broth
Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Watch as the broth transforms into a robust base for your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup, carrying all those lovely flavors.
Step 6: Mix Cream and Seasonings
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream along with salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika to taste. The soup should begin to feel creamy and luxurious—let it cook for another 2 minutes while the seasonings meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Add Carrots and Pasta
Incorporate 1 cup of matchstick carrots and 2 cups of uncooked macaroni noodles. Allow the mixture to come to a boil for about 1 minute, gently stirring to ensure the pasta is submerged. This step will start cooking the pasta and adding more texture to your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup.
Step 8: Simmer
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the macaroni will cook and absorb the flavors, transforming your soup into a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a big hug from the inside.
Step 9: Add Cheese
Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring over low heat until melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is nearly ready—just look at that cheesy goodness!
Step 10: Serve
Ladle the hot Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup into bowls, and enjoy it immediately while it’s warm. A finishing sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs on top adds a beautiful touch. This comforting dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, promising smiles all around!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup components are perfect for meal prep! You can brown the ground beef along with the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. Both the soup base and cooked pasta can be stored separately for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, avoid mixing in the cheese until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the soup base on the stove, add the cooked pasta, stir in the shredded cheese, and let it melt for a creamy, comforting bowl just as delicious as the day you made it!
Storage Tips for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture while keeping your soup fresh and delicious.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months, but avoid adding cheese before freezing to preserve texture.
- Thawing: To enjoy again, thaw your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup in the fridge overnight. When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming and prevent sticking. Enjoy your comforting bowl!
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—your taste buds will thank you!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with almond or coconut milk for a creamy texture without the dairy.
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Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based version that packs protein.
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Extra Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and a pop of color; they’ll meld beautifully with the flavors.
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Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a warm kick that elevates your soup to a new level of deliciousness.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or quinoa instead of regular macaroni, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting bowl.
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Cheese Lovers: Mix in a variety of cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a flavorful twist that oozes with extra cheesiness.
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Creamy Tomato: For a tangy twist, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or a can of diced tomatoes—perfect for those who love a hint of acidity!
By incorporating these delicious variations, you can ensure that this delightful Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup remains a family favorite, adaptable to every occasion and craving. For more comforting options, try my Pot Lasagna Soup or Thai Coconut Soup.
What to Serve with Creamy Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
A wholesome bowl of comfort is delightful on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal to new heights.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasty flavor of garlic bread makes a perfect companion, ideal for dipping into the creamy soup.
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Crunchy Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp greens and veggies adds brightness, balancing the rich, hearty soup with its refreshing crunch.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and crispy texture create a wonderful contrast to the smooth soup, providing a wholesome boost to your meal.
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Cheesy Biscuits: Flakey and buttery, these delightful biscuits are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup—a delicious way to indulge.
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Fruit Salad: A bowl of sweet, juicy fruits introduces a refreshing lightness, cleansing your palate between each rich spoonful of your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup.
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Soda or Iced Tea: A chilled drink pairs beautifully, enhancing the soup experience with a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory flavors.
Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
- Brown the Beef: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned for a deeper flavor before adding flour; this step enhances the overall taste of your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup.
- Watch the Simmer: Stir frequently while simmering to avoid the pasta sticking together; a gentle simmer is key to perfect texture.
- Adjust Thickness: Alter the amount of chicken broth to control the soup’s thickness; remember, it thickens as it cools!
- Cheese Melting: Add cheese at low heat to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth, creamy finish in your soup.
- Customize Flavors: Experiment with spices and vegetables to fit your family’s preferences, ensuring the Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup remains a family favorite!
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground meat should I use for the Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup?
You can use ground beef for rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter option. I often switch it up based on what I have on hand!
How do I know when my onion is ripe and ready to use?
Choose onions that feel firm with shiny skins. Avoid any with soft spots or dark blemishes, as these can indicate spoilage. A sweet, slightly pungent aroma is a good sign of a fresh onion.
Can I make this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stove. If you want to store it longer, freeze portions for up to 3 months—just remember to avoid freezing the cheese until you thaw.
What if my soup is too thick?
If your soup has thickened too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up; stir well while reheating. It’s a simple fix that saves you from wasting any deliciousness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If anyone in your family has dairy allergies, you can replace the heavy cream with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Plus, to make it vegetarian, swap ground meat for lentils or chickpeas, which are both protein-rich and delightful in the soup!
How should I store leftover Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, do so in airtight containers for up to 3 months; just be sure to leave out the cheese until you’re ready to enjoy it again. Thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat, adding a little broth to bring back that creamy texture.
Creamy Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, pour in a tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef along with 1 diced yellow onion to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream along with seasonings to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Incorporate 1 cup of matchstick carrots and 2 cups of macaroni noodles. Bring to a boil for about 1 minute.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately while warm.
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