If you love the comfort of a cheeseburger and the heartiness of macaroni soup, wait until you try Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. This recipe brings together crave-worthy flavors—think tender beef, golden cheddar, and buttery noodles—all in one creamy, cozy bowl. It’s perfect for chilly nights, feeding a hungry family, or simply indulging a nostalgic craving for classic diner fare. Each spoonful is pure joy, and I can’t wait for you to give it a try.

Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup? Every ingredient plays an important role, and nothing is hard to find. Each addition brings maximum flavor, texture, and color—a true harmony in a bowl!

Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and onions, adding extra richness from the very first step.
Lean ground beef: Brings that meaty, classic cheeseburger bite in every spoonful.
Yellow onion: Sweet, soft onions create a delicious foundation as they cook down with the beef.
Chopped garlic: Just a touch of garlic brings out both the beef and cheese flavors beautifully.
All-purpose flour: Thickens up the broth into a luscious, silky soup base.
Chicken broth: Lighter than beef broth and lets the cheeseburger flavors truly shine.
Heavy cream: Makes the soup ultra-creamy and comforting; it’s what separates this dish from traditional hamburger soup.
Salt: Enhances every single element—don’t skimp!
Pepper: Gives the soup a gentle heat and balancing sharpness.
Onion powder: Adds depth and hints of “secret recipe” flavor.
Italian seasoning: Brings herby freshness that keeps the soup lively.
Paprika: A dash gives gentle warmth and great color.
Matchstick carrots: Buy them pre-cut for a pop of color and sweet crunch without any fuss.
Uncooked macaroni noodles: The true soul of this soup—absorbent, chewy, and totally satisfying.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts seamlessly into the soup for that classic cheeseburger finish.
Shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami-boosted layer for even more depth.

How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onions

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add your ground beef and diced onions. Crumble the beef as it cooks, mixing with the onions until it turns beautifully brown with no pink remaining. The onions should soften and begin to release their sweetness during this stage.

Step 2: Stir in Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add in your chopped garlic and let it cook for about a minute. You’ll smell that familiar, mouthwatering aroma—it’s a sign that garlic is working its flavorful magic without burning.

Step 3: Create a Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and give everything a good stir. Let this mixture cook for about 3 minutes. This step is the secret to a thick, creamy Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup base, ensuring the final result isn’t watery but rich and velvety.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour in your chicken broth and stir well. Keep mixing until your broth begins to thicken—a good sign your flour has done its job. This sets up that luscious texture you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Pour in the Cream

Next, stir in the heavy cream. The broth will lighten in color and take on that creamy body that makes every bite so dreamy. At this stage, it’s already hard not to sneak a taste!

Step 6: Spice It Up

Add salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir thoroughly so the flavors distribute evenly. You’ll notice the soup starts to smell like a cross between a classic cheeseburger and your favorite comfort food.

Step 7: Add the Carrots and Pasta

Bring the soup to a rolling boil before pouring in the matchstick carrots and uncooked macaroni. Give everything a good mix to ensure the noodles don’t stick together—these ingredients will finish cooking right in the pot, soaking up all those amazing flavors.

Step 8: Simmer to Perfection

Once back to a boil, pop a lid on the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is when the noodles cook through, the carrots tenderize, and all those flavors meld together into something unforgettable.

Step 9: Stir in the Cheeses

After twenty minutes, lift the lid and stir in your shredded cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring until they fully melt, transforming your pot into a golden, cheesy masterpiece with irresistible stringy goodness.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the piping-hot Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup into bowls and watch everyone’s eyes light up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend get-together, this soup is always the hug-in-a-bowl that disappears fast!

How to Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup

Garnishes

Top your piping-hot soup with extra shredded cheddar, a sprinkling of fresh chives, or a little diced pickle for that ultimate cheeseburger touch. Crumbled cooked bacon or crunchy fried onions are also delicious—don’t be afraid to pile on your favorites!

Side Dishes

Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup alongside buttery garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or soft dinner rolls to soak up every last spoonful. For a complete diner-style meal, a side of oven fries or roasted veggies pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy base.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle the soup into bread bowls for an extra-cozy presentation, or serve it in mugs at a casual gathering. For a fun twist, offer a “top your own bowl” bar with little ramekins of pickles, jalapenos, or crispy onions so everyone can customize their own ultimate Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup cool, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, and the pasta keeps soaking up that creamy goodness—be prepared for some seriously satisfying leftovers!

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind the pasta may soften a bit after thawing. For best results, consider freezing the soup without the noodles and boiling up a fresh batch when you reheat. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

Reheating

Warm individual portions gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it to your desired consistency. Microwave reheating also works—just cover and use shorter intervals, stirring in between until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter, equally tasty Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup. You might want to add an extra splash of olive oil for richness, since turkey is leaner.

Will other cheeses work?

Yes, you can mix things up! Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella lend a great melt, while a little sharp provolone adds extra depth. Just be sure to keep the cheddar as your base for that classic cheeseburger flavor.

Can I make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup gluten-free?

Definitely. Substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour for thickening, use gluten-free pasta, and double-check your broth and seasonings for any traces of gluten.

How can I spice it up?

For a zesty kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or diced jalapenos alongside the paprika. It’s fantastic if you love a little heat!

What type of pot or Dutch oven should I use?

A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large stockpot is perfect, helping distribute heat evenly and making it easy to stir without fear of sticking or scorching. Plus, you can simmer the soup right on the stove without babysitting.

Final Thoughts

This bowl of Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and filled with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or just spoiling yourself, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Give it a try, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite soup!