One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

The Coziest One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Comfort meets creativity in this innovative one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup that blends classic burger flavors with creamy pasta goodness.

Hearty ingredients mingle in a single pan, promising minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Each spoonful delivers a nostalgic punch of familiar tastes reimagined in soup form.

Meat lovers and pasta enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by this unexpected culinary mashup.

Melted cheese and seasoned ground beef create a rich, indulgent base that feels like a warm hug.

Packed with robust flavors and simple ingredients, this recipe breaks traditional soup boundaries.

We guarantee this unique dish will become your new go-to comfort meal that sparks conversation around the dinner table.

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Comfort In Every Spoonful

  • Simplify Cooking: Single pot reduces dirty dishes and makes cleanup a breeze, perfect for busy home cooks wanting minimal kitchen mess.
  • Comfort Food Reinvented: Transforms classic cheeseburger and mac and cheese flavors into a hearty, satisfying soup that delivers familiar taste with exciting twist.
  • Kid-Friendly Meal Magic: Combines popular ingredients kids love like cheese, beef, and pasta into one delicious bowl that will make mealtime exciting for entire family.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Comes together super fast with basic ingredients, allowing you to serve a delicious meal in less than thirty minutes without complicated preparation steps.

Ingredients To Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty meat that provides rich flavor and protein to the soup.
  • Milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the soup's texture.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Creates a delicious, melty base that gives the soup its signature cheesy taste.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Garlic: Provide a foundational flavor profile and aromatic base for the soup.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a subtle tangy flavor to the soup.
Liquid Base:
  • Beef Broth: Creates the liquid foundation that helps cook the pasta and blends the soup's flavors.
Pasta:
  • Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta that makes this soup hearty and filling.
Thickening Agent:
  • Flour: Helps create a thicker, more substantial soup consistency.
Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall flavor of the soup.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley, Chives, Pickle Slices: Optional toppings that add extra flavor and visual appeal.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the beef and onions, adding a light flavor base.

Simple Steps To Prepare One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in ground beef and diced onions.

Cook until the beef turns a rich brown color and onions become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to break up the meat. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Remove any excess grease from the pot.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

Sprinkle minced garlic into the pot and stir.

Let it sizzle and release its aromatic flavors for 1-2 minutes, creating a mouthwatering base for the soup.

Step 3: Build the Liquid Foundation

Pour in beef broth and drained diced tomatoes.

Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, allowing the ingredients to meld and create a rich, robust base.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Drop the uncooked elbow macaroni into the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 8-10 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The pasta should become tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Create Creamy Cheesy Goodness

Introduce shredded cheddar cheese and milk to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese completely melts and creates a smooth, creamy texture.

For a thicker consistency, whisk flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then mix it into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serving

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls.

For extra flair, top with fresh chopped parsley or chives and add a few pickle slices for a classic cheeseburger vibe. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the comforting, flavor-packed meal!

Tips To Perfect One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Remove excess fat completely to prevent greasy soup and ensure a cleaner, lighter flavor profile.
  • Stir macaroni frequently to prevent sticking and achieve perfect al dente texture without overcooking.
  • Add cheese off direct heat and stir gently to create smooth, creamy consistency without potential graininess.
  • Enhance soup with optional toppings like crispy bacon bits, diced pickles, or a dash of mustard for classic cheeseburger experience.
  • Use cornstarch slurry as an alternative to flour for gluten-free version and smoother soup texture.

Flavorful Variations To Enjoy On One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Gluten-Free Hero: Replace regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. Use cornstarch instead of wheat flour for thickening and ensure all broth is certified gluten-free.
  • Veggie Power Bowl: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach for nutritional boost and hearty texture.
  • Low-Carb Champion: Substitute macaroni with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use heavy cream instead of milk and increase cheese quantity for richer consistency. Choose lean ground turkey or chicken for protein.

Pairing Ideas That Go Well With Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Select a crisp lager or amber ale that cuts through the soup’s richness and complements its hearty beef profile.

Create a light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette dressing to balance the soup’s creamy texture and provide fresh contrast.

Add classic cheeseburger-style dill pickle spears on the side to enhance the burger-inspired flavor notes and provide a zesty crunch.

Serve a cold carbonated lemon-lime soda that refreshes the palate and matches the soup’s playful comfort food vibe.

How To Store One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Cool soup completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze up to 2-3 months for best quality.
  • Pour soup into a pot, add splash of milk or broth to restore creamy consistency. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Heat until steaming and temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe bowl. Cover with microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Stop when soup is thoroughly hot.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work great in this recipe. Just make sure to brown the meat thoroughly.

  • Is this soup kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the cheesy, burger-like flavors. It’s a fun way to get them to enjoy a hearty meal with lots of protein and comfort food vibes.

  • How can I make this soup more nutritious?

Add some extra vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers when cooking the beef and onions. This boosts the nutrition without changing the delicious taste.

  • Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can! The soup reheats well. Just store it in an airtight container and gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

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One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comforting one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup delivers classic American diner flavors in a single hearty dish. Creamy, meaty, and packed with cheesy goodness, this soup brings quick satisfaction to hungry diners seeking a nostalgic meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes, drained

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup whole milk

Grains and Thickeners:

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Liquids:

  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings:

  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh parsley
  • Chives
  • Pickle slices

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, warm olive oil over medium heat. Brown ground beef and sauté onions until beef is fully cooked and onions are translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  2. Drain excess fat from the pot. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
  3. Pour beef broth and diced tomatoes into the pot. Stir ingredients and bring to a rolling boil.
  4. Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
  5. When macaroni reaches desired tenderness, incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and milk. Stir continuously until cheese melts completely and creates a smooth, creamy consistency.
  6. For a thicker soup texture, create a flour slurry by mixing flour with small amount of water. Gently blend slurry into soup and cook for additional 2-3 minutes.
  7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
  8. Ladle soup into serving bowls. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, and pickle slices. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Customize meat choices by swapping ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for dietary preferences.
  • Control soup thickness by adjusting liquid content or adding flour slurry for desired consistency.
  • Elevate flavor profile by experimenting with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda.
  • Enhance nutrition by incorporating additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or frozen mixed vegetables during beef cooking stage.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 415 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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