The Ultimate Comfort: One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Hello there, fellow food lovers! Are you looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the coziness of a warm, hearty soup? Then this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is exactly what you need! This delicious recipe has all the cheesy, savory goodness you crave without the fuss of multiple pots and pans or processed ingredients like Velveeta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy family meal, this soup is sure to satisfy both adults and kids alike. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible one-pot wonder!
If you love cheeseburgers and pasta, this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the best of both worlds. Combining the juicy flavors of ground beef, the creaminess of cheddar cheese, and the comforting heartiness of macaroni, this dish has become a favorite in many homes. It’s a cozy and quick meal that brings together everything you love about a cheeseburger but in a rich, savory soup form. What’s more, there’s no need for Velveeta or any processed cheese, making this soup both flavorful and wholesome. It’s a perfect dish for fall or winter nights, warming you up from the inside out.
This cheeseburger soup recipe is also easy to customize, allowing you to add your own twist or adapt it based on what you have in the pantry. Whether you’re a busy parent or a working professional looking for a quick dinner option, this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup will not disappoint.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy, delicious soup:
- Ground beef – This gives the soup its classic cheeseburger flavor. You can swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. You can substitute with shallots or omit for a lighter taste.
- Beef broth – The savory base of the soup. Vegetable broth can be used for a different depth of flavor.
- Elbow macaroni – The pasta that brings the heartiness. You can use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – The main source of cheesy goodness. You can also mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
- Milk – Helps to create the creamy texture. Use whole milk for a richer result, or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the soup to perfection.
Optional Add-ins:
- Diced tomatoes or pickles – Add some tangy flavor, reminiscent of a cheeseburger topping.
- Mustard or ketchup – Drizzle on top for a fun, cheeseburger-inspired twist!
Let’s break down how to make this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with simple, easy-to-follow steps.
- Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef and diced onion. Stir and cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary. - Add Beef Broth
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The beef broth adds richness to the soup and enhances the flavors of the ground beef and onion. - Cook the Macaroni
Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for about 7-8 minutes, or until the pasta is just al dente. It’s important to cook the pasta directly in the broth to allow it to soak up all the flavors. - Add Cheese and Milk
Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup turns into a creamy, cheesy delight. - Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve warm. For an extra touch of fun, garnish with shredded cheese or chopped pickles!
Helpful Tips for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Be sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the soup.
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding your own cheese ensures a creamy texture.
- Customize to your liking: Feel free to toss in extras like bacon, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños to add even more flavor to your soup.
Cooking Tips for the Best One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot: This will help distribute heat evenly and prevent the soup from burning at the bottom.
- Slowly add cheese: Adding the shredded cheese gradually and stirring well ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Boost the flavor with Worcestershire sauce: A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a deeper, more savory flavor to your soup, enhancing the “cheeseburger” profile.
While this soup is a complete meal on its own, you can elevate it with a few tasty side dishes:
- Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment to soak up every drop of the cheesy, beefy broth.
- Side salad: A crisp, refreshing green salad can provide balance to the richness of the soup.
- Crispy French fries: Want to lean into the cheeseburger theme? Serve the soup with a side of fries!
Pair this delicious cheeseburger soup with a cold soda or a frosty beer to complete the meal.
This comforting soup is not only packed with flavor but also offers a balance of macronutrients. Rich in protein and carbohydrates, it’s a great option for a filling weeknight dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 15% DV
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup offers the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition!
Storage and Leftovers for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:
- Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the elbow macaroni for any small pasta like shells or rotini. - Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. - Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach would be delicious additions. - Can I make this soup ahead of time?
You can! Make the soup as directed and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently when ready to serve, adding a bit more broth if needed.
If you loved this recipe, here are two more similar dishes you’ll want to try:
- Louisiana Shrimp and Corn Bisque – Creamy & Delicious
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup – Easy, Creamy Comfort Meal
There you have it! A hearty, comforting, and incredibly delicious One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that’s perfect for chilly nights or busy weekdays. With its creamy texture and cheeseburger-inspired flavors, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to let us know how it turned out or if you added any personal twists. We’d love to hear from you in the comments!
Now that you’ve mastered this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and warm up your kitchen with this tasty recipe tonight!
Let me know if you need any further adjustments!
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – Hearty & Delicious
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef – This gives the soup its classic cheeseburger flavor. Feel free to swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 1 medium onion diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. You can substitute with shallots or omit for a lighter taste.
- 2 cups beef broth – The savory base of the soup. Vegetable broth can be used for a different depth of flavor.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni – The pasta that brings the heartiness. You can use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The main source of cheesy goodness. You can also mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
- 1 cup milk – Helps to create the creamy texture. Use whole milk for a richer result or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the soup to perfection.
- Optional Add-ins:
- Diced tomatoes or pickles – Add some tangy flavor reminiscent of a cheeseburger topping.
- Mustard or ketchup – Drizzle on top for a fun cheeseburger-inspired twist!
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- The first step to making this cheeseburger soup is browning the ground beef. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef and diced onion. Stir and cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
- Step 2: Add Beef Broth
- Next, pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The beef broth adds richness to the soup and enhances the flavors of the ground beef and onion.
- Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for about 7-8 minutes, or until the pasta is just al dente. It’s important to cook the pasta directly in the broth to allow it to soak up all the flavors.
- Step 4: Add Cheese and Milk
- Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup turns into a creamy, cheesy delight.
- Step 5: Season and Serve
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve warm. For an extra touch of fun, garnish with shredded cheese or chopped pickles!
Hi, I’m Emily Hart, a 32-year-old chef with a lifelong passion for cooking that goes far beyond just a career—it’s the heart and soul of who I am. From the moment I was old enough to hold a spoon, I’ve been enchanted by the way food brings people together, how flavors can tell stories, and how a simple dish can evoke powerful emotions. The kitchen is my sanctuary, where the sizzle of pans and the aroma of fresh ingredients inspire me to create something special every day.
For me, cooking isn’t just about following recipes; it’s about experimenting, pushing boundaries, and blending culinary traditions to create something new and exciting. Whether I’m preparing an elegant five-course dinner or a comforting bowl of homemade soup, I pour my heart into every detail. I believe that food has the power to connect us all—whether through shared meals or teaching others how to find joy in cooking.
Over the years, I’ve honed my skills not only in crafting delicious meals but also in understanding what makes people feel at home when they sit down at the table. I love sharing my passion with others through cooking classes, collaborations with fellow food enthusiasts, and simply bringing people together one plate at a time. Cooking is my art form, and every dish is an opportunity to share a piece of myself with the world.