If you’ve ever wished your two favorite comfort foods—cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese—could magically come together in one glorious bowl, then you are in for a treat with this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. It’s rich, hearty, and absolutely satisfying, delivering all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger and creamy mac and cheese with none of the fuss. The best part? Everything cooks in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze and allowing you to enjoy every cheesy, meaty spoonful without any extra work. This soup is the ultimate cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this soup just right means having a handful of simple ingredients that each bring their own magic to the pot. From the savory ground beef that forms the hearty base, to the sharp cheddar cheese that melts into creamy perfection, every component plays a vital role in building flavor, texture, and even a splash of vibrant color.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean beef for a nice balance of flavor and less grease.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened just right.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the onion without sticking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle kick and aromatic warmth to the soup.
- 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and brightness to balance the richness.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheesy goodness.
- 1 cup milk: Creates a creamy texture without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly for that signature cheeseburger taste.
- 1 teaspoon mustard: Adds a hint of tangy sharpness that wakes up the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami complexity that enhances the meatiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors into harmony.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart gently with your spoon so it cooks evenly. This step is crucial as it builds the savory foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, add your chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them together for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent. This soft sweetness will blend seamlessly with the beef and elevate the overall flavor.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth along with the diced tomatoes, including their juices. Give everything a good stir and bring the pot to a rolling boil. This liquid creates the flavorful soup base and hydrates the pasta you’ll add next.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. This step makes it a true one-pot wonder by cooking the pasta right in the soup.
Step 5: Add the Dairy and Seasoning
With the pasta perfectly tender, stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the soup transforms into a luscious, creamy delight that will remind you of your favorite cheeseburger flavors in every spoonful.
Step 6: Season with Salt and Pepper
Finally, taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. This step lets you tailor the dish exactly to your preference, rounding out all those rich and tangy flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe hot, topped with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. The herb adds just the right touch of freshness and a splash of green that makes this comforting soup even more inviting.
How to Serve One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh parsley is a classic, but why not jazz things up with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheddar, or even a dollop of sour cream? These toppings add texture and layers of flavor that complement the soup’s rich, creamy base.
Side Dishes
Your soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, think simple sides like crusty bread or buttery garlic toast. A crisp green salad also works beautifully to contrast the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out bell peppers to impress guests or delight kids. Another idea is layering it with extra cheese on top and broiling it briefly to get a bubbly, golden crust that adds an irresistible crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit as it rests, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that pasta can change texture a little after freezing, so adjust by reheating gently and stirring well.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the cheese melt back in smoothly. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens too much during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for this soup, you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoky Gouda for a unique twist. Just choose ones that melt well to keep the soup creamy.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or use extra vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still get a hearty, flavorful soup.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to use any small pasta shape like shells, ditalini, or rotini. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your pasta is perfectly tender.
How spicy is this soup? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild by default, making it family-friendly. If you love a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño during the onion and garlic sauté step.
What if my soup is too thick?
If it thickens more than you like, just stir in a bit more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. Because it’s a creamy soup with pasta, it can thicken slightly as it cools or sits.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe has the perfect balance of cozy comfort and satisfying flavors, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something warm and indulgent. It’s so simple to make and endlessly delicious that you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Trust me—you’ve just discovered a new favorite that’ll bring smiles to your table every time.
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One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines all the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a creamy, hearty soup. Ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, savory beef broth, and sharp cheddar cheese come together for a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup milk
Others
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Add Dairy and Seasoning: Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste and stir well.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference for cheesiness.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
