Chef Mitchell preparing Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup recipe while experimenting with pantry staples during a chilly evening. Over time, I perfected the balance of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite. The creamy cheese sauce combined with hearty beef and tender macaroni creates an unforgettable dish. Now, it's a go-to recipe that brings warmth and comfort to our dinner table."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I specialize in creating delicious and approachable dinner recipes. My culinary journey has led me to explore various cooking techniques, ensuring that my dishes are flavorful and satisfying. I believe that food should be both enjoyable and easy to prepare.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup served on a plate

Why This Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup Recipe Works

This Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup recipe stands out due to its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor profile. The combination of ground beef and macaroni makes it a filling option that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various ingredients, ensuring you can make it your own.

The technique of simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a soup that's not just good but great. Adding cheese at the end ensures it melts perfectly, making every spoonful deliciously creamy. This recipe is a true winner for busy cooks!

💡 Professional Tip

Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results in your soup. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Also, consider adding a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup ahead of time. Just prepare the soup as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little extra broth or milk to restore the creamy texture, as it may thicken upon standing.

If you're looking for a substitute for ground beef, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a hearty and nutritious alternative.

Your Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup is done when the macaroni is al dente and the flavors are well combined. The soup should be hot and creamy with melted cheese throughout. Taste a spoonful to ensure seasoning is to your liking before serving.

Yes, Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You might also consider adding some garlic bread for an extra treat. For a lighter option, serve it with some steamed vegetables.

Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup will last in the fridge for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain its quality. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can absolutely make this Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup in advance. Simply prepare it as directed and store it in the fridge. It’s a great option for meal prep, allowing flavors to develop even more over time.

The best way to reheat Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup is on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or milk to retain creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it may heat unevenly.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The soup has thickened or dried out too much.

Solution: Add a bit of extra broth or milk while reheating to restore the soup's creamy texture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The soup lacks texture or crunch.

Solution: Consider adding croutons or crispy bacon as a topping for added crunch and flavor.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The macaroni is mushy.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, monitor the pasta closely and add it to the soup towards the end of the cooking time.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The macaroni remains hard.

Recovery: If the macaroni is undercooked, simply simmer the soup for a few more minutes until the pasta is al dente.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The bottom of the soup burns during cooking.

Prevention: To prevent burning, cook the soup on low heat and stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the soup is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavor.

Too Salty: If the soup is too salty, adding more unsalted broth or a potato can help absorb the excess salt.

Bland: If the soup is bland, try adding more spices or herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup

The key ingredients for this Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup include quality ground beef, which provides a hearty base, and elbow macaroni for that classic texture. You’ll also need shredded cheese for creaminess and vegetables for added nutrition. Fresh herbs or Italian seasoning enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

Using high-quality ingredients ensures the best taste and texture. Opt for freshly shredded cheese to achieve the creamiest soup, and don’t skimp on the fresh vegetables to boost the nutritional value. These choices make a significant difference in the final dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) to reduce excess fat while maintaining flavor. Browning the beef properly adds depth to the soup, enhancing overall taste.
  • Elbow Macaroni: Cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup. It continues to cook slightly after being added, so keep an eye on the timing.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting results. Pre-packaged shreds often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Cooking process for Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Begin by browning the beef, then build the flavors by adding aromatics and broth. The key is to let everything simmer together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Achieving perfect results hinges on simmering the soup just right. Keep the heat low after adding the cheese to ensure it melts without clumping. This ensures every bowl is rich and creamy, just how a comforting soup should be.

Key Technique for Perfect Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup

The key technique for making this Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup is to add the pasta towards the end of the cooking process. This ensures it doesn't overcook and maintains that ideal al dente texture, which is essential for a satisfying bite.

Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk
    Adds creaminess
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    For that cheesy goodness
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    Enhances flavor depth
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
    For a herby note

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
    Lean and flavorful
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
    Classic pasta choice
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
    Adds sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    For flavor
  • 4 cups beef broth
    Base of the soup
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
    For acidity
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
    For nutrition
  • 1 bay leaf
    For added aroma

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

  2. Add Broth and Tomatoes

    Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and bay leaf, then bring to a simmer.

  3. Mix in Macaroni

    Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir well. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked.

  4. Incorporate Mixed Vegetables

    Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

  5. Add Milk and Cheese

    Reduce heat to low and stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.

  6. Season to Taste

    Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

  7. Serve Hot

    Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, which can extend its shelf life for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping, or accompany it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional cheese on top before serving.

Recipe Variations

You can easily customize this Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup by adding different vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Additionally, try swapping the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick or adding some cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.