One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

The Ultimate One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Craving a comforting macaroni cheeseburger soup that combines classic diner flavors in one satisfying pot?

Hearty ingredients mingle with creamy cheese and savory ground beef for an unexpected culinary adventure.

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delicious solutions that keep everyone happy and full.

Kitchen magic happens when familiar favorites merge into something extraordinary.

Casual meals become memorable experiences with this simple yet innovative recipe.

Cheese lovers and soup enthusiasts will absolutely adore how each spoonful delivers rich, bold flavors.

Why One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Is a Savory Classic

  • Simplify Meal Prep: This one-pot wonder eliminates multiple dirty dishes, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a complete meal in a single cooking vessel.
  • Comfort Food Reimagined: Combines the classic cheeseburger and mac and cheese flavors into a hearty, satisfying soup that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Quick Weeknight Savior: Requires minimal ingredients and cooking steps, perfect for busy families seeking a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Family-Friendly Flavor Explosion: Packed with familiar tastes that picky eaters will love, creating a crowd-pleasing dish that brings everyone to the table with excitement.

Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A lean protein that provides the classic cheeseburger flavor and substantial texture to the soup.
  • Beef Broth: A rich liquid base that enhances the meaty depth of the soup.
Vegetable and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that create a savory and aromatic foundation for the soup.
  • Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes that add a bright, tangy element reminiscent of classic cheeseburger toppings.
Seasoning and Pasta:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Basil, Oregano: Dried herbs that contribute an herbal and slightly earthy note to the soup.
  • Macaroni: A classic pasta shape that provides a comforting and hearty texture to the dish.
Dairy and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and melty cheese that delivers the signature cheeseburger taste and creamy consistency.
  • Milk: A smooth liquid that helps create a rich and velvety soup texture.

How to Cook One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large pot over medium flame and sizzle the ground beef until it turns a rich, deep brown color. Break up the meat into small, delicious crumbles as it cooks, ensuring even browning.

Step 2: Saute Aromatics

Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Stir and cook until the onions become translucent and soft, releasing their sweet, fragrant aroma throughout the pot.

Step 3: Sprinkle Flavor Boosters

Shower the beef and onion mixture with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Dried basil
  • Dried oregano

Stir to distribute the herbs and spices evenly, creating a robust flavor base.

Step 4: Build the Soup Foundation

Pour in:
  • Beef broth
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Uncooked macaroni

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup gently simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the macaroni becomes tender and absorbs the delicious flavors, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 6: Create Creamy Cheese Goodness

Remove the pot from heat and stir in:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Milk

Whisk until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, velvety texture.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the steaming cheeseburger soup into bowls. Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Pro Tips for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version of the soup.
  • Use gluten-free macaroni to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Enhance the cheesy flavor by mixing different types of cheese like sharp cheddar and monterey jack.
  • Top the soup with crispy bacon bits, green onions, or crushed crackers for extra texture and flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently to prevent cheese from separating.

Variations to Explore with One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Vegetarian Deconstructed: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans, using vegetable broth for a meat-free protein-packed soup.
  • Mexican Street Corn Style: Add roasted corn kernels, sprinkle cotija cheese, mix in jalapeños, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a southwestern flavor profile.
  • Bacon Cheeseburger Edition: Crisp chopped bacon before browning beef, sprinkle extra bacon bits on top, and use smoky cheddar cheese for enhanced richness.
  • Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, diced cucumber, chopped kalamata olives, and a touch of dried oregano for a Greek-inspired variation.

Best Pairings for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Boost Flavor Fusion: Pair this hearty One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with crisp green salad to balance its richness and add fresh crunch.
  • Beer Buddy Match: Select a robust amber ale or hoppy IPA that complements the soup's meaty, cheesy profile and cuts through its creamy texture.
  • Rustic Bread Companion: Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty sourdough to soak up the delicious broth and provide satisfying textural contrast.
  • Pickled Zesty Side: Add quick-pickled cucumber or tangy dill pickles to introduce a bright, acidic element that enhances the soup's deep, savory flavors.

Storage Tips for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Cool soup completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Avoid freezing dairy-based soups with potatoes, as texture may change.
  • Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creamy consistency.
  • Pour soup into a pot, heat over medium-low temperature. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add extra milk or broth if soup seems too thick.

Common Questions About One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.

  • Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick meals during the week.

  • Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free macaroni and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free to adapt the recipe for those with gluten sensitivities.

  • How can I make the soup more nutritious?

Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, carrots, or spinach during the cooking process to boost the nutritional value of the soup.

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One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe


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4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup combines classic burger flavors with comforting pasta in a single, satisfying meal. Rich beef, melted cheese, and tender noodles create a delicious dinner you’ll crave on chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Liquids and Broth:

  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup milk (240 milliliters)

Pasta and Cheese:

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat a spacious pot over medium flame and thoroughly brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles.
  2. Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
  4. Pour beef broth and diced tomatoes into the pot, then add uncooked macaroni, raising temperature until mixture reaches a robust boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the soup to simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until pasta reaches tender consistency.
  6. Remove pot from heat and gradually blend shredded cheddar cheese and milk, stirring continuously until cheese melts completely and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
  7. Let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
  8. Ladle into serving bowls, garnish with optional fresh herbs or additional cheese if desired, and serve piping hot.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef for lean turkey or plant-based crumbles to create a lighter, healthier version of this hearty soup.
  • Enhance flavor complexity by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika during the seasoning step.
  • For a gluten-free adaptation, use alternative pasta like chickpea or rice macaroni and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.
  • Elevate the soup’s texture by topping with crispy bacon bits, green onions, or crushed hamburger-style potato chips for a delightful crunch.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 460 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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