How to Make Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup
Follow these easy steps for a delicious, foolproof result every time:
1. Brown the Meat
In a large soup pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed. Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.
2. Build the Base
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked macaroni directly into the pot. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
4. Add the Cheese
Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. The soup should take on a creamy, cheesy texture.
5. Season to Perfection
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Simmer for a few more minutes to blend all the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Macaroni Soup
Here are a few pro tips to take your soup to the next level:
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Choose lean ground beef to keep the soup from getting too greasy.
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Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt content.
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For a thicker soup, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) at the end.
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Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
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Mix and match cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Creative Variations and Substitutions
Make it your own with these fun twists:
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Swap the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage.
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Add more veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or spinach are all great additions.
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Go Tex-Mex: Stir in black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a bold southwestern version.
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Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based ground “meat” and veggie broth instead of beef.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also pairs beautifully with:
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Crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping
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A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
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A glass of red wine or iced tea for the perfect balance
It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or curling up on the couch.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup is more than just a meal — it’s a bowl of comfort that brings people together. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and customizable ingredients, it’s bound to become a regular in your home-cooked rotation.