Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup: Comfort Food Recipe You’ll Love

Hamburger Green Bean Casserole: the ultimate comfort food mashup you didn’t know you needed! Imagine the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef mingling with the creamy, classic flavors of green bean casserole. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

While the traditional green bean casserole boasts a history rooted in mid-century American kitchens, often credited to Dorcas Reilly at Campbell’s, this Hamburger Green Bean Casserole takes a delicious detour. It builds upon that familiar foundation by incorporating the universally loved taste of hamburger, adding a protein-packed punch and transforming it into a complete meal.

What’s not to love? The creamy sauce, the tender green beans, the crispy fried onions – it’s a symphony of textures and tastes. But the addition of seasoned ground beef elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a comforting, home-cooked flavor that warms you from the inside out. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution when you’re craving something satisfying and fuss-free. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies for the family!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon

Browning the Beef and Aromatics

Okay, let’s get started! The first step is to brown our ground beef. This is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor that will permeate the entire soup. I like to use a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot for this, as it distributes heat evenly and prevents scorching. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a large stockpot will work just fine.

1. Prepare the Beef: Place your ground beef in the Dutch oven or stockpot. Turn the heat to medium-high.
2. Brown the Beef: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, break the ground beef into smaller pieces. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned all over. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll want to make sure there are no large clumps of beef remaining.
3. Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat. This step is important because too much fat can make the soup greasy. You can use a colander to drain the beef, or carefully tilt the pot and spoon out the fat, leaving the beef behind.
4. Add Onion and Garlic: Now, add the chopped yellow onion to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This allows the onion to release its natural sweetness and flavor. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Building the Soup Base

With the beef browned and the aromatics softened, it’s time to build the foundation of our cheeseburger macaroni soup. This is where we layer in the flavors that will make this soup truly special. We’re going for a rich, tomatoey, and slightly smoky broth that complements the beef and cheese perfectly.

1. Add Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: Pour in the can of tomato sauce and the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel). The Rotel adds a nice little kick, but if you prefer a milder soup, you can use regular diced tomatoes instead.
2. Pour in the Broth and Water: Add the beef broth and water to the pot. The beef broth provides a deep, savory base, while the water helps to balance the flavors and prevent the soup from becoming too concentrated.
3. Season the Soup: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, and black pepper. The oregano and basil add a classic Italian flavor, while the smoked paprika gives the soup a subtle smoky depth. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you like a little more heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful the soup will become.

Cooking the Macaroni

Now it’s time to add the macaroni! I prefer elbow macaroni for this soup because it’s a classic shape that holds up well in the broth. However, you can use other small pasta shapes, such as ditalini or small shells, if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

1. Add the Macaroni: Stir in the elbow macaroni. Make sure the macaroni is submerged in the broth.
2. Cook Until Tender: Increase the heat to medium and bring the soup back to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of macaroni you use, so check it frequently.

Adding the Cheese and Finishing Touches

This is the best part! Adding the cheese transforms the soup into a creamy, cheesy delight. I like to use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a balanced flavor and texture. The cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor, while the Monterey Jack adds a creamy, melty texture. You can also experiment with other cheeses, such as Colby Jack or pepper jack, depending on your preferences.

1. Remove from Heat: Once the macaroni is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. This is important to prevent the cheese from clumping or becoming stringy.
2. Stir in the Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese to the soup. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. The cheese should melt quickly and easily. If it’s not melting properly, you can return the pot to low heat for a minute or two, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted.
3. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika to taste.

Serving and Enjoying

Your cheeseburger macaroni soup is now ready to be served! I love to top it with a dollop of sour cream, some chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon for extra flavor and texture. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a quick weeknight meal, or a potluck gathering. It’s also great for meal prepping, as it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

1. Ladle into Bowls: Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Add Toppings: Top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a little extra heat.
• Add vegetables: Stir in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery along with the onion for added nutrients and flavor.
• Use different meat: Substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef.
• Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for protein.
• Creamier soup: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for an even creamier soup.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover cheeseburger macaroni soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s be honest – you’ve read this far, and that means your stomach is probably already rumbling! And for good reason. This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a hug in a bowl, a nostalgic trip back to childhood, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and I truly believe it’s a recipe you’ll be making again and again.

Why is it a must-try? Well, first and foremost, it’s incredibly easy. We’re talking minimal prep time and a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash – always a win in my book! But beyond the convenience, it’s the flavor that truly shines. The savory ground beef, the creamy cheese sauce, the perfectly cooked macaroni, and that hint of tangy tomato – it’s a symphony of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies for the little ones (or even the not-so-little ones!).

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative and make it your own! Looking for serving suggestions? A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a lovely tang. A sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley brightens things up. And a side of crusty bread for dipping? Absolutely essential! For variations, consider adding a can of diced tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients. A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can kick up the heat for those who like a little spice. You could even swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your family. That’s the beauty of cooking, right? It’s all about creating something delicious and enjoyable that brings people together. And I have a feeling this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup will do just that.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. And more importantly, I want to hear all about your experience! Did you make any modifications? Did your family love it as much as mine does? Share your photos, your tips, and your stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!

I’m confident that this recipe will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, and everything in between. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think. I’m always looking for new ways to improve and refine my recipes, and your feedback is invaluable. Enjoy!