One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate family-friendly comfort food. It combines all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the cozy warmth of a creamy soup, all made in a single pot for easy cleanup. If you enjoy hearty, cheesy dishes, you might also love this Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe for another satisfying meal.

Ingredients

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup comes together with simple ingredients for a rich, savory, and deeply satisfying bowl of comfort.

• 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, to taste
• Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
• For the Croutons: 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Garnish: sliced green onion and shredded cheddar cheese

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is ready in about 30 minutes, making it roughly 20% faster than similar recipes that require multiple pots and longer simmering times.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully browned and no pink remains. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

For the best flavor, avoid overcrowding the pot. If there is excess grease, you can drain it off before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Sautéing these ingredients builds a flavorful foundation for your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Step 3 — Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits for extra flavor.

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, you are ready to add the pasta.

Step 4 — Cook the Macaroni

Stir the dry elbow macaroni into the boiling soup. Reduce the heat to a steady simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The pasta is done when it is al dente—tender but still with a slight bite. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to soften in the hot soup.

Step 5 — Create the Creamy Base

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and all-purpose flour until no lumps remain. Slowly pour this slurry into the soup while stirring continuously.

This technique prevents the flour from clumping and will gently thicken the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup as it heats.

Step 6 — Melt in the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted before adding the next.

For the creamiest results, use freshly shredded cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.

Step 7 — Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. For an extra kick, a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can be stirred in at this stage.

Let the soup sit for 5 minutes off the heat to allow the flavors to meld together. Ladle into bowls and serve immediately while hot.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Fat	21 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	980 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean Ground Turkey or Chicken — A lighter protein option that still provides a savory, meaty base for the soup.
• Lentils or Crumbled Tofu — A plant-based protein swap that absorbs the cheesy flavors beautifully for a vegetarian version.
• Whole Wheat or Chickpea Pasta — An easy swap to add fiber and make this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free.
• Cauliflower Florets — Replace half or all of the macaroni with cauliflower for a significantly lower-carb alternative.
• Nutritional Yeast or Dairy-Free Cheese — Creates a deliciously creamy, cheesy flavor without dairy for those with sensitivities.
• Low-Sodium Broth & No-Salt-Added Tomatoes — Simple changes to control the salt content while maintaining a rich soup base.
• Greek Yogurt instead of Sour Cream — Swapped in at the end for a tangy creaminess with added protein and less fat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this hearty One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• For a classic comfort food meal, serve it alongside warm, crusty garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping.
• This soup is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a cozy game day gathering, or a potluck where it can be kept warm in a slow cooker.
• Serve the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in deep bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, fresh chopped parsley, or crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
• For a fun twist, set up a topping bar with options like diced red onions, pickles, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream, letting everyone customize their bowl.
• This all-in-one meal is substantial on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp beer or a glass of iced tea.

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is incredibly versatile, making it a crowd-pleaser for any casual occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the pasta, turning it mushy. Fix: Add the macaroni last and cook just until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the hot soup.
• Mistake: Using lean ground beef, which can result in a less flavorful soup. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef; the rendered fat adds richness and helps create a better fond in the pot.
• Mistake: Adding cheese to boiling liquid, causing it to seize and become grainy. Fix: Always remove the pot from heat and stir the cheese in gradually until fully melted and smooth.
• Mistake: Not deglazing the pot after browning the beef, leaving flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Fix: Pour in a splash of broth after browning and scrape the bottom thoroughly with a wooden spoon.
• Mistake: Skipping the tomato paste sauté, resulting in a raw, tinny flavor. Fix: Cook the tomato paste with the aromatics for a full minute to caramelize and deepen its flavor.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheese containing anti-caking agents. Fix: Shred a block of sharp cheddar yourself for a much creamier, smoother melt in your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.
• Mistake: Adding all the liquid at once without considering pasta absorption. Fix: Start with slightly less broth, as the macaroni will release starch and absorb liquid; you can always add more to reach your desired consistency.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season in layers, leading to a bland final dish. Fix: Season the beef while browning, the vegetables while sautéing, and then taste and adjust again at the end before serving.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out if it has thickened.

For best quality, avoid repeated reheating of your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food for a busy weeknight. We hope your family loves it as much as ours does! If you’re craving another cheesy, beefy dish, try our Creamy Beef and Shells. Please leave a comment with your thoughts, and don’t forget to subscribe for more easy recipes!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this soup?

Yes, you can substitute the macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly. The recipe will still be a delicious One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free macaroni and ensure your beef broth is certified gluten-free. The core flavors of this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup will remain the same.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

You can prepare the soup base ahead, but it’s best to add the cheese and pasta just before serving. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid and can become mushy if stored. Reheat gently on the stove.