Introduction

This Creamy Beef Mac Soup is the ultimate 30-minute comfort food, combining rich ground beef, tender pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce in one pot. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights. If you enjoy beefy pasta dishes, try this Easy Ground Beef and Parmesan Tortellini Recipe for another quick dinner idea.

Ingredients

This Creamy Beef Mac Soup delivers rich, savory ground beef simmered in a tomato-based broth with tender pasta and a luxurious cream cheese finish for ultimate comfort.

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 26 ounces spaghetti sauce
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes, drained
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped, divided
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat elbow macaroni (or regular elbow macaroni)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Creamy Beef Mac Soup recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains. This should take about 6–8 minutes.

For the best flavor, avoid overcrowding the pan. Drain any excess fat before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2 — Sauté Aromatics

Add 1 diced onion and 2–3 minced garlic cloves to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make it taste bitter.

Step 3 — Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir to combine all ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer.

Step 4 — Cook the Pasta

Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni to the simmering broth. Cook according to package directions, usually 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Test the pasta for doneness—it should be tender but still firm to the bite (al dente).

Step 5 — Prepare the Creamy Base

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth. This slurry will thicken the soup.

Tempering is key: slowly ladle about 1 cup of the hot soup broth into the cream mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents curdling when you add it back to the pot.

Step 6 — Combine and Thicken

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir the tempered cream mixture into the soup. Continue to cook, stirring gently, until the soup thickens slightly—about 3–5 minutes.

Do not boil after adding the cream, as high heat can cause separation.

Step 7 — Add Cheese and Season

Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

For extra creaminess, you can also mix in ¼ cup of cream cheese at this stage.

Step 8 — Final Simmer and Serve

Let the Creamy Beef Mac Soup simmer on low for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The soup should be creamy, hearty, and well-combined.

Serve immediately while hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	18g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — Leaner protein option that still provides savory flavor while reducing saturated fat content.
• Whole Wheat or Chickpea Pasta — Higher fiber alternatives that add nutritional value while maintaining the classic mac texture.
• Zucchini Noodles or Cauliflower Rice — Low-carb vegetable substitutions that lighten the dish while keeping it satisfying.
• Coconut Milk or Cashew Cream — Rich dairy-free alternatives that create the same creamy consistency without lactose.
• Gluten-Free Pasta Blend — Perfect for those with sensitivities while maintaining the traditional pasta experience.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Reduced-Salt Cheese — Cuts sodium significantly while preserving the deep, comforting flavors of this Creamy Beef Mac Soup.
• Greek Yogurt Instead of Heavy Cream — Adds protein and tanginess while reducing the fat content in the creamy base.
• Lentils or Mushrooms — Plant-based protein options that provide meaty texture and umami depth for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
• Serve in warm, shallow bowls to keep this Creamy Beef Mac Soup hot and comforting.
• Perfect for chilly weeknight dinners or casual weekend lunches with family.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, extra shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of black pepper.
• An excellent choice for potlucks and game day gatherings—it’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Pack leftovers in a thermos for a delicious and hearty lunch on the go.

This Creamy Beef Mac Soup is wonderfully versatile, fitting for both cozy family meals and entertaining guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the pasta in the soup, making it mushy. Fix: Cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to maintain perfect texture.
• Mistake: Using lean ground beef that results in a dry, less flavorful soup. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef to render fat for a richer, more savory base.
• Mistake: Adding cheese directly to boiling liquid, causing it to separate or become grainy. Fix: Remove soup from heat and stir in cheese gradually until fully melted and creamy.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of properly browning the beef, missing out on deep flavor. Fix: Cook beef in batches until well-browned to develop a robust, caramelized taste.
• Mistake: Using a watery broth that dilutes the creamy consistency. Fix: Choose a low-sodium beef broth and reduce it slightly before adding dairy components.
• Mistake: Over-thickening with flour, creating a pasty mouthfeel. Fix: Make a smooth roux and cook it for a minute to eliminate raw flour taste before adding liquids.
• Mistake: Not seasoning in layers, leading to a bland final dish. Fix: Season the beef while browning, the broth as it simmers, and adjust again after adding dairy.
• Mistake: Rushing the simmering process, preventing flavors from fully melding. Fix: Let the soup simmer gently for at least 20 minutes to allow ingredients to harmonize.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents that hinder smooth melting. Fix: Always shred cheese from a block for the creamiest, most consistent melt in your Creamy Beef Mac Soup.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Creamy Beef Mac Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

For best results, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This Creamy Beef Mac Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors in one satisfying bowl. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For more hearty dishes, check out our Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe and One Pot Lasagna Soup Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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Creamy Beef Mac Soup

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Pin Recipe

A hearty and creamy soup featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato base, perfect for a comforting meal.

• Author: Dorothy Miller
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x
• Method: Soup
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 26 ounces spaghetti sauce
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes, drained
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped, divided
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat elbow macaroni, or regular elbow macaroni

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and onion and cook until the beef is no longer pink. Add in garlic and cook for a minute more.
2. Add salt, pepper and oregano to the beef and stir to combine.
3. Pour in chicken stock, spaghetti sauce, and diced tomatoes, then bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in cream cheese and half of the fresh basil until melted and well combined.
5. Add the elbow macaroni and continue to simmer until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with remaining fresh basil.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use heavy cream or half-and-half. Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version. Add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for more nutrition.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 8
• Sodium: 1200
• Fat: 18
• Saturated Fat: 8
• Unsaturated Fat: 8
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 35
• Fiber: 3
• Protein: 22
• Cholesterol: 60

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Beef Mac Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Creamy Beef Mac Soup in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. While the soup will be less rich, it will still be delicious. You can also use a plain, unsweetened non-dairy creamer if preferred.

How can I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, cook the macaroni separately and add it to individual bowls when serving. Alternatively, if making the entire pot of Creamy Beef Mac Soup, cook the pasta just until al dente in the soup and serve immediately.