Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Creamy Comfort in Every Bowl

A rainy day often calls for something warm and comforting, and one dish that brings me pure joy on such occasions is cheeseburger macaroni soup. The aroma of sautéing onions and garlic fills the kitchen, evoking memories of family dinners where hearty meals brought us together. Each spoonful mingles rich flavors, creating a sense of nostalgia that feels like a warm hug.

The beauty of cheeseburger macaroni soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. Utilizing a handful of ingredients, this dish transforms into a creamy, flavorful feast for the senses. It’s perfect for weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet easy to prepare from the comfort of your home. I still remember the first time I made this recipe for my loved ones; their smiles as they savored every bite filled my heart with warmth.

This creamy wonder not only satisfies hunger but also sparks joy in shared moments around the dinner table. You’ll find that cheeseburger macaroni soup brings everyone together, making it a cherished favorite in many households. Let’s dive into this comforting dish and explore how you can bring this delightful experience into your own kitchen.

Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Essentials

Fundamentals

Cheeseburger macaroni soup combines classic flavors into a delightfully creamy dish. Start with a rich base that includes ground beef, yellow onion, and garlic. The ground beef provides a savory depth, while the onions and garlic create a fragrant foundation. This combination ensures every spoonful bursts with flavor, making it comforting and heartwarming.

Another essential component is the balance of creamy textures and hearty pasta. Adding heavy cream elevates the soup to a luxurious status, while macaroni noodles offer the perfect chewiness. This dish speaks to comfort food enthusiasts, inviting you to savor each rich bite that tastes like a cheeseburger in a bowl. The addition of spices like Italian seasoning and paprika enhances the flavor, making this dish irresistible.

Preparation/setup

To begin, gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process. Chop the onions and mince the garlic, and set them aside. This prep work lays a solid foundation for the rich flavors to build upon. Measure out the flour, broth, and cream, ensuring a smooth workflow. The ease of this preparation guarantees that you’ll have a hearty meal in no time.

Next, select a large pot or a Dutch oven for cooking. This depth will allow for even cooking of the ingredients while avoiding splatters. Heat the olive oil over medium heat, ensuring that it coats the bottom of the pot. This guarantees that your aromatics cook evenly and prevent sticking, which is key to achieving a perfectly savory base.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious pot of cheeseburger macaroni soup:

• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or butter)
• 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
• 1 medium Yellow Onion (diced, or shallots)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced, fresh preferred)
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half and half/whole milk)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Onion Powder (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Paprika (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup Matchstick Carrots (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups Uncooked Macaroni Noodles (or any small pasta)
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (consider mixing cheese varieties)
• 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano as a substitute)

Directions

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion, sautéing until translucent and tender.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon, cooking until browned and cooked through.
• Sprinkle in the flour and mix well to combine, allowing it to cook for another minute.
• Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously, ensuring there are no lumps.
• Stir in the heavy cream, then add the matchstick carrots, uncooked macaroni noodles, and seasonings—salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
• Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.

Elevating Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup

Technique

Using the right technique ensures the richness of flavors meld beautifully. Start by sautéing the onions for a good base—don’t rush this step. It’s essential to achieve that perfectly cooked, slightly caramelized onion that enhances the overall flavor profile. Follow with the garlic, being careful not to burn it, as this can lead to a bitter taste.

When cooking the ground beef, make sure it browns nicely. This browning process not only adds depth but also gives the soup a beautiful color. As you sprinkle in the flour, whisk it together thoroughly with the meat mixture to avoid any clumps before adding the broth. This step is crucial for achieving the desired creamy and thick consistency.

Tips/tricks

One of the best tips I can offer is to taste as you go. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Italian seasoning and paprika can both enhance or change the flavor significantly, so play around with the amounts.

If the soup feels thick, you can always add more broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Noodles may absorb liquid, so keep this in mind when deciding your soup’s thickness. Using a mix of cheeses can also elevate the flavor. Consider including Gruyere or Monterey Jack for an extra kick.

Perfecting Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup

Perfecting results

For the ultimate comfort food experience, ensure the macaroni noodles are perfectly al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and alter the texture of the dish. A good trick is to add the pasta a few minutes before the soup’s cooking time is complete. This way, they absorb flavors without compromising their integrity.

Let flavors meld together by allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period will amplify the delightful cheeseburger taste, creating a richer overall profile as the ingredients have time to unify.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your soup turns out too thick, simply add additional broth or water while simmering. Stir well and bring it back to the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too soupy, letting it simmer longer can help it thicken as the noodles absorb the liquid.

Feel free to customize this recipe further to your liking. Substituting ground turkey or chicken provides a lighter option, while experimenting with different pasta shapes can keep things exciting. You might also consider adding vegetables such as peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup

Serving/presentation

Present the cheeseburger macaroni soup in large, comforting bowls. Top each serving with additional shredded cheese for an inviting look. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives can add color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal of your dish.

Serving with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls can turn this simple soup into a delightful meal, perfect for any occasion. Your family will love dipping the bread into the creamy broth, creating a satisfying dining experience.

Pairings/storage

Cheeseburger macaroni soup stands alone well, but it pairs beautifully with a light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. For storage, keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive its creamy texture.

This dish also freezes well. Portion out the soup into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly, bringing a bit of warmth and comfort back into any day.

In atmosphere, flavor, and comfort, cheeseburger macaroni soup embodies love for food and family. Make it your own, share it with others, and enjoy every spoonful!

Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A creamy and comforting soup that captures the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or butter)
• 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
• 1 medium Yellow Onion (diced, or shallots)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced, fresh preferred)
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half and half/whole milk)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Onion Powder (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Paprika (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup Matchstick Carrots (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups Uncooked Macaroni Noodles (or any small pasta)
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (consider mixing cheese varieties)
• 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano as a substitute)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion, sautéing until translucent and tender.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon, cooking until browned and cooked through.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and mix well to combine, allowing it to cook for another minute.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously, ensuring there are no lumps.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, then add the matchstick carrots, uncooked macaroni noodles, and seasonings—salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
8. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.

Notes

Let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking to enhance the flavors. Adjust seasonings to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soups
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: soup, comfort food, cheeseburger, macaroni, creamy soup, cozy meal