One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

When cozy comfort food calls, this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the answer. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with ground beef, pasta, and veggies—all simmered together in one pot for the ultimate weeknight dinner. Imagine the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger mixed with the heartiness of macaroni and cheese, transformed into a rich, soul-warming soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has everything: it’s hearty, cheesy, family-friendly, and made in just one pot (hello, easy cleanup!). It’s perfect for chilly nights, meal prepping, or anytime you’re craving the nostalgic taste of a cheeseburger in soup form.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

While indulgent, this soup is packed with protein, vegetables, and energy-boosting carbs. Knowing the nutritional content helps you enjoy this comfort food mindfully, without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

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

Time Breakdown

This soup is perfect for busy nights because it comes together quickly. With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a warm, hearty dinner ready in under 35 minutes.

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list is simple, with common pantry staples and fresh vegetables. Each component, from ground beef to cheddar cheese, works together to create a rich, flavorful, and creamy soup that tastes like a decadent meal but is easy to make.

• 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

Condensed Grocery Checklist

Need a quick shopping list? This section highlights all the essentials so you can grab ingredients efficiently and get started on your one-pot comfort meal without missing anything.

• 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 the definition of cozy comfort food. With hearty beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese base, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table smiling. Plus, it’s quick, customizable, and made in a single pot, perfect for any busy weeknight.

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