Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup
Imagine a warm bowl of soup that wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly evenings. Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup is just that! This delightful dish combines the heartiness of ground beef, the creaminess of Velveeta cheese, and the comforting texture of macaroni, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or a comforting solo meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this soup is sure to satisfy.
A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup Journey
I remember the first time I tasted Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup at my grandmother’s house. It was one of those rainy days when nothing felt better than a warm bowl of soup. The rich flavors and creamy texture stayed with me, evoking fond memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe that brings back those cherished memories while adding my own twist!
What Makes This Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the delightful blend of flavors. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy Velveeta cheese creates a rich, velvety soup that is both filling and comforting. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy days. You can also customize it with your favorite toppings, which adds an extra layer of creativity to the dish.
The Full Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1-2 stalks celery, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with seasoned salt and black pepper. Tip: Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the soup light.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter, then onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid clumping.
- Gradually stir in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, which will enhance the flavor. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom for added taste.
- Add macaroni and let it cook at a gentle simmer until al dente, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in cream and Velveeta cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: Taste before adding more salt, as the cheese can be salty.
- Serve and enjoy this comforting cheesy beef macaroni soup! Tip: For added flavor, consider topping with crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs like parsley.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup
This Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even more. Try serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a twist, consider adding in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to change the flavor profile. If you want to make it a bit healthier, feel free to add in some spinach or kale during the cooking process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat it on the stove. Just be mindful that the macaroni may absorb some of the liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup? Freezing is possible, but the texture of the pasta may change upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the soup without the macaroni and add it fresh when you reheat.
How can I make this a vegetarian dish? You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 6
Cheesy Beef Macaroni Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 stalk celery, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with seasoned salt and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter, then onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid clumping.
- Gradually stir in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
- Add macaroni and let it cook at a gentle simmer until al dente, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in cream and Velveeta cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy this comforting cheesy beef macaroni soup! For added flavor, consider topping with crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs like parsley.