One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the coziness of a hearty soup. Loaded with ground beef, macaroni, and melted cheese, this dish is creamy, savory, and perfect for weeknight dinners. The best part? It all comes together in just one pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor!
When my family is craving cheeseburgers but I want something warm and hearty, this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is my go-to. It has all the flavors they love—juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and creamy cheese—but in the form of a cozy, satisfying soup. The first time I made it, it quickly became a household favorite. My husband loves topping his bowl with extra shredded cheese, while the kids can’t get enough of the soft macaroni soaking up all the cheesy goodness. It’s now a staple in our home, especially on chilly nights when we all need something warm and comforting.
Why You’ll Love One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
•One Pot Meal: Easy cleanup and no need for multiple dishes. Everything cooks in one pot for convenience.
•Cheeseburger Vibes: Packed with all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting soup form.
•Creamy & Hearty: The combination of cheese, ground beef, and pasta creates a rich and satisfying dish.
•Kid-Friendly: Perfect for kids who love cheeseburgers, this soup is a fun way to enjoy those flavors in a new way.
Ingredients Notes for One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
•Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a flavorful base. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
•Macaroni: Elbow macaroni works best, but any small pasta shape can be used.
•Cheese: Cheddar is classic for that cheeseburger flavor, but you can mix it up with Colby or American cheese for added creaminess.
•Beef Broth: Adds depth to the soup, mimicking the savory flavor of a burger.
•Diced Tomatoes: For a tangy, juicy touch, just like the tomatoes in a cheeseburger.
Recipe Steps for One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
1.Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic
2.Stir in 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Macaroni
3.Pour in 4 cups beef broth and 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, then stir in 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni. Cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
4.Reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup milk, and ½ cup heavy cream. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
Step 5: Season and Serve
5.Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added flavor. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese, chopped pickles, or crumbled bacon if desired.
Storage Options
•Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a little milk or broth to loosen the soup if needed.
•Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
•Meat Options: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
•Cheese Choices: Mix it up with American, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a bit of heat.
•Vegetable Add-Ins: Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even corn for extra veggies and flavor.
•Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups macaroni pasta elbow or shell
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese plus extra for topping
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions croutons, or bacon bits
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until al dente.
- Stir in Remaining Ingredients: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), milk, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese and optional toppings like chopped green onions, croutons, or bacon bits.