There's nothing quite like a cozy night in with a bowl of soup that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings. Enter my One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! This recipe effortlessly blends the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the creamy comfort of a delicious soup, making it a standout meal for families and hungry friends alike. Beyond its rich taste, the beauty of this one-pot wonder lies in its quick prep time and adaptability—perfect for those of us juggling busy schedules or simply seeking an easy way to delight a crowd. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, which means everyone’s invited to the table! Curious to see how these simple ingredients turn into a comforting masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Simplicity: This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Flavor Explosion: With the rich flavors of ground beef and sharp cheddar, every spoonful is a creamy delight that will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Kid-Friendly: It's a dish that pleases both young and old, ensuring everyone sits down happily at the dinner table!
Versatile & Adaptable: You can easily swap ingredients—try different cheeses or throw in some veggies you have on hand for a personal touch.
Comfort in a Bowl: This cozy recipe perfectly combines the indulgent tastes of a cheeseburger in a warm, soothing soup, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients
Discover everything you need for this delightful comfort food!
For the Soup Base
• Ground beef – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Small yellow onion – Adds a savory sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
• Medium carrots – Offer a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Celery stalks – Provide crunch and a fresh, aromatic element.
• Garlic – Adds depth with its robust aroma.
For the Pasta & Cheese Mixture
• Elbow macaroni – Perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Brings that quintessential cheeseburger flavor, melting beautifully into the soup.
For the Broth & Creaminess
• Beef broth – Forms the flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
• Milk or half-and-half – Adds creaminess; use half-and-half for an extra indulgent twist.
For Thickening
• Butter – Helps create a rich roux, enhancing the soup’s texture.
• All-purpose flour – Thickens the soup while providing a smooth consistency.
Seasonings
• Salt – Enhances every ingredient's natural flavor.
• Black pepper – Adds a subtle kick that rounds out the taste.
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional) – Offers a fresh garnish to brighten the dish.
Get ready to enjoy this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that celebrates home cooking with every spoonful!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot, over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and browned. Ensure to crumble the meat with a spatula for even cooking. Once cooked, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside, leaving a little behind for added flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 diced yellow onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks to the pot, stirring occasionally for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves for the last 30 seconds to elevate the aroma.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables in the pot. Stir well to coat the veggies, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux that will thicken our One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. Watch for the mixture to become slightly golden, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
Step 4: Add Broth and Milk
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of beef broth to the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Next, pour in 1.5 cups of milk or half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Look for small bubbles forming on the surface, signaling it's time to move on.
Step 5: Cook the Macaroni
Stir in 1 cup of elbow macaroni and let the mixture cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye out for the pasta to become tender but still firm, as this will ensure your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup remains hearty and satisfying.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef to the pot. Gradually add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into a creamy consistency. The soup should now be thick and inviting, showcasing the delightful cheeseburger flavors.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Season your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting according to your preference. Give the soup a final good stir, tasting to ensure the flavors are perfectly balanced before serving.
Step 8: Serve & Garnish
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting bowl of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that is perfect for any family gathering or cozy evening!
Helpful Tricks for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Use Lean Beef: Choosing lean ground beef will help reduce excess fat in the soup while still keeping that delicious flavor.
Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Since the macaroni will continue to soften as it sits, slightly under-cook it for better texture in your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!
Simmer Gently: Bringing the soup to a gentle simmer helps meld the flavors together without risking separation or curdling the milk.
Gradual Cheese Addition: Add cheese slowly and stir continuously to achieve a creamy, lump-free texture that coats the macaroni perfectly.
Season Early: It’s easier to enhance flavors; season the broth early to ensure the seasonings embed deeply into the dish.
What to Serve with One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Warm up your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement this hearty, creamy soup.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts the soup's creaminess.
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with herbs and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds vibrant colors.
- Garlic Bread: With its aromatic flavor, garlic bread invites indulgence and enhances the comfort food vibe of this meal.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic combo pairs wonderfully, as the melted cheese will echo the soup's cheesy depth.
- Pickles or Pickled Veggies: Their tanginess cuts through the richness, adding a zesty bite that brightens every spoonful of soup.
- Steamed Broccoli: Offering a fresh, tender texture, steamed broccoli provides a nutritious boost while contrasting the soup's creamy base.
- Sweet Corn Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins add a deliciously unexpected flavor that perfectly complements the savory soup.
- Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: For a light dessert option, crunchy apple slices spread with creamy peanut butter make a refreshing end to your meal.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Both drinks refresh and offer a lovely contrast of flavors to round out the comforting warmth of the soup.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (without the macaroni) up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply cook the ground beef, sauté the vegetables, and stir in the broth and milk as directed. When you're ready to serve, add the macaroni and cook until tender, ensuring it stays perfectly al dente. To maintain quality, store the soup base in an airtight container and refrigerate it; be sure to reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed. Enjoy quick, comforting meals on busy nights!
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this comforting recipe to your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute elbow macaroni and all-purpose flour with gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat to create a meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to your soup.
- Cheese Variety: Use different cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist and extra creaminess.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or corn to boost nutrition and add refreshing colors to your dish.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning for an aromatic depth that elevates the flavors.
- Creaminess Boost: Replace milk with heavy cream for an ultra-rich, decadent experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika or diced smoked sausage for a wonderful smoky essence.
Explore these variations, and make this comforting soup truly your own!
How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Fridge: Keep your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally, and add broth or milk as needed before serving.
Reheating: Always reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling of dairy.
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for this soup?
Using lean ground beef (like 80/20 or 85/15) is ideal for this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. It provides great flavor without making the soup too greasy. If you're looking for a healthier option, you might also try ground turkey or chicken as substitutes!
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can keep your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth or milk to restore the desired consistency if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze this soup? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze, let your soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some room for expansion, as liquids expand when frozen. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat gently on the stove, stirring often—you’ll want to add some broth or milk to get that creamy texture back!
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup turns out thicker than desired, simply add more beef broth or milk, a little at a time, while stirring. This way, you can adjust the consistency to your liking without losing flavor. Additionally, when reheating, do it slowly on low heat, adding liquid as needed.
Is this soup suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To make your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free, swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta alternative and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to check all labels to ensure that the beef broth is also gluten-free.
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Very! While sharp cheddar cheese provides that classic cheeseburger flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of mozzarella can add a delightful twist. Just remember to add the cheese gradually, stirring to ensure a buttery, smooth melt!
Indulgent One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup for Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a pot over medium heat for 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pot. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stir to coat, and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth, then add milk or half-and-half, bringing to a simmer.
- Stir in elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes until tender.
- Return browned beef to the pot, add shredded cheese, and stir until melted into a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper, tasting for flavor balance before serving.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot.
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