Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup

I absolutely love this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup because it transforms all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights. As a busy parent, I’m always looking for meals that my kids will actually eat without complaining, and this soup has become a family favorite in our household.

There’s something magical about watching my children’s eyes light up when they realize their favorite burger flavors are swimming in a warm, cheesy soup. This recipe came to me on a particularly cold winter evening when I was craving comfort food but didn’t have time to make individual burgers for everyone. The combination of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheese creates a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table faster than you can say “dinner’s ready.” This hearty cheeseburger soup recipe has saved many weeknights in our home, and I’m excited to share it with you.

What You’ll Need for This Hearty Soup

For the best results with this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup, I recommend using lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess fat while maintaining flavor. The quality of your beef broth makes a significant difference in the final taste, so I always choose a low-sodium, high-quality brand.

• 1 lb ground beef (90/10 lean recommended)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar gives the best flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon each)
• Optional toppings: pickles, additional cheese, crumbled bacon

Pro tip: For extra depth of flavor, try using a combination of sharp cheddar and a bit of smoked gouda in your cheeseburger soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Soup

Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef with diced onion over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink (about 6-8 minutes). Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat carefully.

Step 2: Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.

Step 3: Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder. Season with salt and pepper (start with 1/2 teaspoon of each).

Step 4: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until pasta is tender but not mushy. The pasta will continue to soften in the hot soup, so I recommend cooking it for 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests.

Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. For the creamiest texture, add the cheese gradually while stirring constantly.

Step 7: Serve hot with your favorite burger toppings like pickles, extra cheese, or crumbled bacon.

Perfect Pairings for Your Soup

The rich, savory flavors of this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup pair wonderfully with several complementary sides.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the hearty soup and soaking up every last drop of the cheesy broth.

Garlic Bread: The aromatic garlic notes enhance the burger flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.

Simple Green Salad: Provides a fresh contrast to the rich soup and adds some vegetables to your meal.

Pickle Spears: The tangy crunch of pickles cuts through the richness and mimics the classic burger experience.

More Comforting Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul

If you enjoyed this hearty Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup, you’ll love these other comforting soup recipes that are perfect for chilly days. For a similar creamy experience, try my rich Broccoli Cheddar Soup or the satisfying Creamy Potato Soup that pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread. Both offer that same velvety texture and comforting warmth that makes this cheeseburger soup so irresistible.

Looking for more substantial meal-in-a-bowl options? My Sausage Tortellini Soup combines savory Italian sausage with cheesy pasta in a flavorful broth, while the Crack Chicken Noodle Soup features tender chicken and noodles in a creamy, seasoned base. These recipes deliver the same satisfying meal experience as the cheeseburger soup and are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick, delicious, and filling.

Storage and Reheating Guide

This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months, though the pasta may become softer upon reheating.

When reheating, I recommend using the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the proper consistency. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

Pro tip: If you plan to freeze this soup, I recommend cooking the pasta separately and adding it when reheating to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Common Questions About This Recipe

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