Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This comforting and creamy cheeseburger soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying!

Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% works best)
  • 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Optional Toppings:

  • Crushed potato chips or croutons (for crunch)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Extra shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot for flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the beef and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

4. Cook the Macaroni:
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The macaroni should be tender but not mushy.

5. Incorporate the Cheeses:
Once the macaroni is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, allowing them to melt completely into the soup. Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta.

6. Adjust Consistency:
If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or beef broth to reach your desired consistency. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as crushed potato chips, fresh parsley, or extra shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

  • Cheese Choices: Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
  • Make It Heartier: Add diced carrots, celery, or potatoes to the soup for extra vegetables and bulk.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some liquid as it sits; add a little milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but the macaroni may become soft upon thawing. For best results, freeze without the pasta and cook fresh macaroni when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with crusty bread, buttery biscuits, or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights at home.

This Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the warmth and comfort of a creamy soup. With its cheesy goodness, tender macaroni, and savory beef, it’s a dish that will quickly become a household favorite!