One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will adore, then you’ve found it! This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s rich, hearty, and so simple to whip up — perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, everything comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

What makes this soup special is not only its delightful cheeseburger flavor but also how it brings people together. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, so you can enjoy your meal without the wait.
• Family Favorite: The cheesy goodness and familiar flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• One Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, saving you time on cleanup!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe with what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor — just what you need on a cozy evening.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze. You’ll find that these simple, wholesome items come together to create something truly special.

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper
• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Sliced green onion, for garnish
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

Variations

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different ingredients to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for varied flavors.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prep the Croutons

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Take those sesame seed bun cubes and spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss until they’re coated evenly. Bake for about 10 minutes until they turn crispy! These croutons will add a delightful crunch to your soup.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef along with one teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper too! Brown the meat while breaking it up with a spatula until fully cooked through. Once done, remove it from the pot and set aside; this step ensures your soup has that delicious cheeseburger flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot (no need to clean it!), melt six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in diced onions, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about ten minutes while stirring occasionally; this allows the veggies to soften and begin releasing their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Lower the heat slightly before adding five cloves of minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant — garlic makes everything better!

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle four tablespoons of flour over your sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cooking this mixture for another minute helps eliminate any raw flour taste while thickening your soup beautifully.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in just a splash of chicken broth to deglaze your pot — scraping up all those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom is key! Then add in the rest of your chicken broth along with uncooked elbow macaroni and another pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Once simmering, reduce heat to low and let it cook for about five to seven minutes until your pasta reaches al dente perfection. Remember to stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 8: Combine Cream & Cheese

Remove your pot from heat once pasta is cooked. Stir in one cup of heavy cream along with eight ounces of shredded cheddar cheese until melted into creamy goodness.

Step 9: Final Touches

Add one teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar followed by adding back that delicious cooked ground beef into your pot. Heat everything gently over medium heat until warmed through; season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle out servings of your glorious cheeseburger soup into bowls topped with those crispy sesame seed bun croutons! Garnish generously with green onions and more shredded cheddar cheese because why not? Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting meal!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Cooking can be a breeze with these helpful tips that will make your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup even more delightful!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it taste homemade and vibrant.

• Stir frequently: While the pasta is cooking, stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This ensures an even cook and keeps your soup creamy.

• Adjust consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a little longer to reduce the broth. For a thinner soup, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique twist on flavor and creaminess.

• Make it ahead: This soup stores well, so if you want to prepare it in advance, simply reheat gently on the stove. Just be mindful that pasta may absorb some liquid as it sits; adding a splash of broth can help bring it back to life!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This comforting dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it nicely will surely impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the hearty bowl of soup.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and tang that balances out the rich flavors beautifully.
• Diced pickles: For those who love a bit of tang, sprinkle some diced pickles on top for an extra burst of flavor reminiscent of classic cheeseburgers.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy base.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed with vinaigrette brings freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add healthy colors and flavors that pair wonderfully with this hearty dish.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of your cheeseburger soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup experience! Enjoy every warm, cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade comfort food throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers, freeze portions, or reheat them with minimal effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions on high until warm, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this hearty soup, here are some common questions!

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup without ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, plant-based ground meat works well for a vegetarian twist.

How do I customize my One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or corn. You can also experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors!

How long does One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container!

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can substitute it with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! It’s such a special dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with family and friends, I’m sure it’ll become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!