One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Imagine all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, combined with the creamy coziness of mac and cheese, simmered into a soul-warming soup. That’s exactly what One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup delivers! This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

The first time I made this soup, it instantly became a family favorite. The rich, cheesy broth, tender macaroni, and savory beef create the ultimate comfort food trifecta. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Let’s dive in and whip up this satisfying bowl of deliciousness.

Recipe Resume

Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty one-pot meal loaded with ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy broth. It’s a kid-friendly dish that’s easy to make and incredibly flavorful.

This soup comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s customizable, reheats beautifully, and pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

The Story Behind This Recipe

One chilly evening, I wanted to combine my family’s two favorite comfort foods: cheeseburgers and mac and cheese. With a few pantry staples and a single pot, this soup was born. It quickly became a hit, with my kids declaring it “the best soup ever.” Now, it’s a regular in our dinner rotation, especially during the colder months.

Why This Soup Stands Out

• One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup for maximum flavor.
• Rich and hearty: A complete meal in a bowl with protein, carbs, and creamy goodness.
• Customizable: Add your favorite cheeseburger toppings or tweak the ingredients.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes!

What You Need for Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For Topping (Optional):

• Crumbled bacon
• Chopped pickles
• Green onions
• Extra shredded cheese

How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

1. Cook the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the liquids and pasta: Stir in the beef broth, milk, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
5. Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add heavy cream if desired for extra richness.
6. Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup

• Stir frequently: Prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: It will continue to soften as the soup sits.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.

Substitutions and Variations

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.
• Add veggies: Stir in chopped spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Use different pasta: Shells, rotini, or penne work well in place of macaroni.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lighten the cheese: Use reduced-fat cheddar or a smaller amount of cheese.
• Swap the cream: Replace heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for creaminess.
• Use whole-grain pasta: Opt for whole-grain macaroni to boost fiber.

Closing for Cheeseburger Soup

And there you have it—One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re warming up on a cold evening or whipping up a quick dinner, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—we’d love to see your take on this cozy classic. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Cheeseburger Soup

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, but the pasta may absorb the broth as it sits. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
   It’s best fresh, as pasta can become mushy when frozen. Freeze without the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and ketchup are gluten-free.
4. What’s the best cheese for this soup?
   Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
5. Can I use tomato paste instead of ketchup?
   Yes, but add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
6. How do I prevent the milk from curdling?
   Use whole milk and avoid boiling the soup after adding dairy.
7. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, cook the beef first, then combine all ingredients except pasta and cheese in the slow cooker. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes and cheese just before serving.
8. Can I add potatoes instead of pasta?
   Absolutely! Dice the potatoes small and simmer until tender.
9. How long does this soup last?
   Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
10. What can I serve with this soup?
    Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or toasted buns for dipping.
11. Can I make it dairy-free?
    Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
12. Is this soup kid-friendly?
    Yes! Kids love the cheeseburger flavors and fun macaroni shapes.