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Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

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Imagine the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger combined with the heartiness of macaroni and cheese—all in a bowl of warm, creamy soup. Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup takes comfort food to the next level with its rich flavors, gooey melted cheese, tender pasta, and savory beef. Perfect for chilly evenings, this one-pot wonder is not only filling but also a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this soup is bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 stalk celery, diced

Liquids

  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Pasta and Cheese

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
  3. If needed, drain any excess fat from the pot to avoid greasiness.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot.
  2. Stir and cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

  1. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  2. Add the elbow macaroni, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and flour until smooth.
  2. Gradually pour this mixture into the pot while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
  3. Let the soup simmer for 2–3 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

  1. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until completely melted and incorporated.
  2. Add the smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
  3. Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

Perfecting the Texture

  • Prevent Lumps: When adding the milk-cream-flour mixture, pour slowly and stir constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy soup.
  • Elbow Macaroni: Cook until al dente; the pasta will continue to soften in the hot soup.
See also  Herbed Chicken & Vegetable Skillet Recipe

Substitutions

  • Pasta Variations: Swap elbow macaroni with small shells, ditalini, or rotini for a fun twist.
  • Dairy Alternatives: Use evaporated milk or a lactose-free cream if you’re sensitive to dairy.
  • Cheese Options: Experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened too much.

Substitutions and Variations

Vegetarian Version

Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Spicy Kick

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the soup for an extra layer of heat.

Low-Carb Adaptation

Omit the macaroni and replace it with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a low-carb, keto-friendly option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked pasta. Simply reduce the simmering time in Step 3, and add the cooked pasta towards the end to prevent it from becoming too soft.

2. How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a bit of cold milk, then stir it into the simmering soup. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes.

3. Can I freeze macaroni cheeseburger soup?

It’s not ideal to freeze this soup because the dairy and pasta may change texture when thawed. However, you can freeze the base (without the milk, cream, and pasta) and add these ingredients fresh when reheating.

4. What can I serve with this soup?

Pair the soup with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting, hearty meal.

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, stirring in the pasta, cream, and cheese during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, offering the best elements of two beloved dishes. With its creamy broth, tender pasta, and savory beef, this soup satisfies on every level. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish to impress guests, this hearty soup is guaranteed to please. Try it once, and you’ll find it becoming a staple in your recipe rotation!

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