One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that the whole family will love, then this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just what you need! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all made in one pot, which means less cleanup for you! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a casual family gathering. You’ll find that it warms both the belly and the heart.

This soup has become a cherished favorite in my home. It captures all the deliciousness of a cheeseburger but in a warm, hearty soup form. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes! I can already picture everyone gathered around the table, spoons in hand, ready to dig into this delightful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• One Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, so you save time on cleanup!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness and familiar flavors.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich combination of cheese and beef creates a warm hug in a bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

For the Soup

• 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 and fresh cracked pepper to taste

For the Croutons

• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Garnish

• Sliced green onion
• Shredded cheddar cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat!

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees. While it’s preheating, place your diced sesame seed bun cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss until they are well-coated. Bake them for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside. These croutons will add a wonderful crunch to your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef along with 1 teaspoon each of oregano and thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper. Brown the beef while crumbling it with a spatula until fully cooked through. Once done, remove from heat and set aside. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor that makes this soup so satisfying.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot (no need to clean it!), melt down your butter over medium heat. Then add in your diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook these veggies for about 10 minutes until they soften—this step builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Now reduce the heat slightly and stir in your minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cooking them just until fragrant—about one minute—will enhance their flavors before we move on.

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle in your flour over those yummy veggies and stir well to coat everything evenly. Let this cook for about one more minute while stirring frequently; this helps thicken our soup nicely later on.

Step 6: Deglaze & Simmer

Add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot—scrape up all those tasty bits stuck at the bottom! Then pour in the rest of your chicken broth along with uncooked macaroni noodles and another pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer on medium-high heat.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Once simmering, turn down to low heat and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until your pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!

Step 8: Finish It Off

Remove from heat once cooked! Now mix in your heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted into gooey perfection. Stir in that teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar for an extra zing before adding back in your cooked ground beef.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy

Heat everything through over medium heat for just a couple more minutes before seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve up hot bowls topped with those crunchy sesame seed croutons along with green onions and extra shredded cheese if desired!

And there you have it—a delicious bowl of One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that’s sure to be loved by everyone at your table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making this delicious soup is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your experience and ensure everything turns out perfect!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese make a huge difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste and bring out the best in each component of the soup.

• Don’t skip deglazing: Adding a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot is crucial. This step lifts all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, adding depth to your soup.

• Stir frequently while cooking pasta: To avoid a sticky mess, stir the macaroni occasionally as it simmers. This will help keep it from clumping together and ensure even cooking.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: After adding cream and cheese, take a moment to taste your soup. A little more salt or pepper can make all the difference in achieving that perfect flavor balance.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Making it ahead not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld even further!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving this comforting soup can be just as fun as making it! A few creative touches can turn a simple meal into something special.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that brightens each bowl.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Extra cheese on top is always welcome! It melts slightly with the heat of the soup, creating an irresistible layer of cheesy goodness.
• Croutons from Sesame Seed Buns: These homemade croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the cheeseburger soup perfectly and is great for dipping.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the soup.
• Steamed Broccoli or Cauliflower: These veggies are not only nutritious but also provide a nice textural contrast against the creamy soup.
• Fruit Salad: For a sweet finish, serve a refreshing fruit salad on the side. The natural sweetness will cleanse your palate after each savory bite.

Enjoy serving up this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup at your next family dinner or gathering—it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the soup to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or heat directly from frozen over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth as needed.
• For refrigerated soup, simply heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that may help you.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative! Just be aware that it may result in a slightly different flavor and texture. Cook it until browned just like you would with ground beef.

What makes One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup so creamy?

The combination of heavy cream and shredded cheese creates that rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

How can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian-friendly, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add vegetables to One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you love such as bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor!

Is One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup kid-friendly?

Yes! This soup is packed with cheesy goodness and familiar flavors that kids typically love. Plus, it’s easy to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only quick and easy but also filled with comforting flavors that everyone will adore. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or bringing it along for lunch, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy making this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations! Happy cooking!