A warm, hearty, and cheesy soup that combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger. This recipe is perfect for a family meal, quick weeknight dinner, or cozy lunch. And yes—don’t lose this recipe because it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients 🛒
Base Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Ingredients:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
8 cups beef broth
8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 cup heavy cream
Cheese and Seasonings:
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or more for extra cheesiness!)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for a tangy cheeseburger kick)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
Cooked and crumbled bacon
Chopped green onions
Extra shredded cheese
Directions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon.
Once fully cooked, remove the beef and set it aside. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer
Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir to combine.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
Add the browned ground beef back into the pot and stir to combine.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season the soup with smoked paprika, mustard powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust to taste.
Serve hot in bowls and top with optional crumbled bacon, green onions, or extra cheese.
Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Soup
Cheese Options: Swap out cheddar for a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a little pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add Veggies: For a more balanced soup, throw in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or frozen peas.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with: Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
For the Kids: Serve with a side of fries to mimic a classic cheeseburger combo!
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
Protein: ~25g
Carbs: ~32g
Fat: ~20g
Prep & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean and all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheesy, creamy, and loaded with familiar cheeseburger flavors.
Family-Friendly: A dish everyone will love, from kids to adults.
