Welcome to a culinary adventure where comfort food meets convenience! This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is your next go-to recipe for a warming and satisfying meal. Combining the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the homely feel of macaroni soup, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into its creamy, cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle for serving
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating your large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess grease from the pot to keep your soup from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add butter to the same pot and let it melt. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant—usually around 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base
Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (do not drain), and bring it to a boil. Add in the cup of elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium-low, letting it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Dairy for Creaminess
Slowly pour in the milk and stir the mixture to combine. Then, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it’s completely melted and the soup is creamy. This is where the magic happens! Afterward, season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined and seasoned, remove the pot from heat. Use a ladle to serve the soup in bowls, optionally garnishing with chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Serve this hearty soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a filling lunch. Your family will love the cheesy aroma and the rich texture!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color. If you’re looking to thicken the soup, a slurry of cornstarch and water can be added. Always taste before serving, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
High Protein Version: Power-up Your Soup!
For a high-protein take on this recipe, consider adding some cooked lentils or black beans. You could also use lean turkey or higher fat cheese like Gruyère for extra protein content. This version not only enhances the protein profile but also adds delightful textures and flavors.
Choosing higher-fat ground beef can also add more protein and rich flavor. Either way, it creates a satisfying and nutritious meal option that’s sure to please all taste buds.
Low Carb Recipe Twist: Keep it Keto!
If you’re carb-conscious, replace the macaroni with cauliflower florets for a low-carb version. Cauliflower provides a similar mouthfeel without the unnecessary carbs and blends deliciously with the cheesy broth.
This option turns the dish into a keto-friendly version, allowing you to enjoy all the savory deliciousness while sticking to your diet plan. Keep in mind, the trick to a great keto variant is remaining generous with the cheese—it helps keep the texture rich and satisfying.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to maintain the creamy consistency.
FAQs
- Can I freeze Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just ensure you use a freezer-safe container. - Is it necessary to use beef broth?
Beef broth adds richness, but you can substitute chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer. - Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, and peas make excellent additions. - How can I make it spicier?
Try adding a dash of hot sauce or some chili flakes for a spicy kick! - Is fresh cheese better than packaged?
Using fresh cheese gives a smoother texture and richer flavor.
Join the Conversation: What Do You Think of Our Recipe?
Thank you for taking this delicious journey with us! We’d love to hear about your experience making this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. Did you add any tweaks or extra ingredients? Feel free to leave a comment or share your mouth-watering creations on social media. Your feedback fuels our culinary exploration! If you loved this recipe, please don’t forget to share it with friends and family.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- elbow macaroni
- butter
- medium onion
- garlic
- beef broth
- milk
- shredded cheddar cheese
- diced tomatoes
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Brown the beef in a pot over medium heat.
- Add butter, onion, and garlic to the pot, sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and tomatoes, bring to boil, add macaroni.
- Simmer until macaroni is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in milk and cheese until melted, season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot with optional parsley garnish.