One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Whenever I’m craving something warm, cheesy, and downright comforting, this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is my go-to. I love how all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, juicy ground beef, gooey cheese, and even a hint of tangy ketchup, come together with tender pasta and hearty veggies in one bubbling pot. It’s creamy, cozy, and ridiculously satisfying, perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup has it all: creamy, cheesy, hearty, and packed with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, without the hassle of flipping patties. It’s family-friendly, weeknight-friendly, and one-pot friendly (yes, that means easy cleanup!). Perfect for chilly nights, meal prepping, or anytime you’re craving that nostalgic, gooey cheeseburger flavor in a cozy, comforting bowl.

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• A protein-packed, energy-fueling comfort food meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: green onions, extra cheese, croutons

• Ground beef
• Onion, garlic, carrots
• Beef broth, milk
• Elbow macaroni
• Cheddar cheese
• Tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning

How to Make – Step by Step

Cooking this soup is straightforward, thanks to the one-pot method. From browning the beef to stirring in the cheese, each step is easy to follow and results in a creamy, cheesy soup that’s packed with flavor.

1. Cook Beef & Veggies – In a large pot, brown ground beef with onion, garlic, and carrots until beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add Seasoning & Liquids – Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Pour in beef broth and milk, bringing to a simmer.
3. Cook Pasta – Add uncooked macaroni and cook until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Make It Cheesy – Lower heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve & Garnish – Ladle into bowls, topping with green onions, extra cheese, or crunchy croutons if desired.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

One of the joys of this soup is its flexibility. Whether you want to swap meats, change the cheese, or add extra vegetables, this section gives you ideas to customize the dish to your taste or dietary needs.

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage.
• Veggie Boost: Add celery, peas, or corn for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or Velveeta for a creamier texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.

Serving Suggestions

Although hearty on its own, this soup pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic bread, fresh salad, or crunchy croutons. These serving ideas help you turn a simple bowl into a full, satisfying meal.

• Garlic bread or Texas toast
• A crisp side salad
• Dill pickles (for a true cheeseburger vibe!)
• Apple cider or iced tea to balance the richness

Storing Tips

Leftovers are easy to store and reheat, making this soup a convenient option for meal prep. This section explains the best ways to preserve flavor and texture so you can enjoy it later without compromising quality.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled soup (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating for best texture.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen if needed.

Chef’s Special Tips

A few chef-style tricks make this soup extra creamy and flavorful. From adding the cheese at the right time to seasoning properly, these tips help ensure every spoonful is indulgent and delicious.

• Cook pasta directly in the soup for maximum flavor, but don’t overcook or it may get mushy.
• Add cheese off the heat to prevent curdling and keep the soup creamy.
• For a thicker texture, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese before serving.
• Want extra cheeseburger flavor? Top bowls with sesame seeds or chopped pickles!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even easy recipes can have pitfalls. This section highlights the common mistakes home cooks make when preparing cheeseburger soup and how to avoid them, so your soup turns out perfectly every time.

1. Adding Cheese Too Early – High heat can make it grainy. Always stir in cheese last.
2. Overcooking Pasta – Leave it slightly al dente to avoid mushy soup.
3. Skipping the Tomato Paste – It adds depth and balances the cheesiness.
4. Not Draining Excess Fat – Too much grease can make the soup heavy.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is pure cozy comfort in a bowl. I love how the hearty beef, tender pasta, and creamy, cheesy base come together to make a meal that always brings smiles around the table. The best part? It’s quick, customizable, and all made in one pot, so even on the busiest weeknights, you can enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner without the fuss.

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