One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, let me introduce you to my One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This delightful soup combines the comforting flavors of cheeseburgers with the heartiness of macaroni. It’s a family favorite in our home because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make—all in just one pot! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this recipe is sure to bring smiles around the table.

What makes this soup even better is how quick it is to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy bowl of goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, you won’t find any processed cheese here—just wholesome ingredients that make every spoonful satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Prep: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’re never far from a hearty meal.
• One Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and relaxing with loved ones.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy flavors and tender pasta.
• Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins!
• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of cheese and spices creates a comforting bowl that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You likely have many of these items in your pantry already!

For the Soup

• 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 and fresh cracked pepper

For the Croutons

• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Garnish

• Sliced green onion
• Shredded cheddar cheese

Variations

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale right before serving for extra nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute beef with lentils or black beans for a meat-free option.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees. While that preheats, place the diced sesame seed bun cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss gently to coat evenly. Bake these little pieces of joy for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside. These croutons will add delightful crunch to your soup!

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef along with one teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme, plus some salt and pepper. Brown the beef while breaking it up with your spatula until fully cooked through—this will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside; this step builds great flavor at the bottom of your pot.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In that same pot (no need to wipe it out!), melt six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Then toss in your diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook them for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally; this will soften them beautifully and enhance their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

Now that your vegetables are tender, reduce the heat slightly and stir in five cloves of minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cook everything together for about one more minute until fragrant—it’s going to smell amazing!

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Next, sprinkle four tablespoons of flour over the vegetables and mix well so everything gets coated. This step helps thicken your soup later on! Stir frequently for about one minute before moving on.

Step 6: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in just a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot—scrape those yummy bits stuck at the bottom! Then add in the rest of your broth along with eight ounces of uncooked macaroni noodles, plus another pinch of salt and pepper. Increase the heat back to medium-high until it begins to simmer.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Once simmering, reduce heat again to low and let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until your pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom—this keeps everything nice and creamy.

Step 8: Finish It Off

Remove your pot from heat once pasta is cooked! Now stir in one cup of heavy cream and eight ounces of shredded cheddar cheese until melted into gooey perfection. Don’t forget to add that teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar! Finally, return your cooked ground beef back into the pot and heat everything through over medium heat for another couple minutes.

Step 9: Serve Up!

Ladle out generous portions into bowls topped with those crunchy sesame seed croutons. Sprinkle sliced green onions and extra cheddar cheese on top for an extra special touch—and enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Creating the perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is all about those little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to make your soup even more delightful!

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing a leaner cut of ground beef reduces excess grease in the soup, making it lighter while still delivering that satisfying cheeseburger flavor.

• Don’t skip the deglazing step: When you add a splash of chicken broth to scrape up the browned bits at the bottom of the pot, it releases deep flavors that enrich your soup, creating a more robust taste.

• Adjust creaminess to preference: If you like a creamier soup, don’t hesitate to add a bit more heavy cream or cheese. This allows you to customize the richness according to your family’s taste.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for added depth and a subtle kick. This can elevate your soup to a whole new level!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in an even tastier dish when served.

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Here are some ideas on how to make this comforting dish visually appealing and deliciously complete!

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color, enhancing both the look and taste of your soup.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle on top melts slightly into the warm soup, creating an inviting finish that accentuates its cheesiness.
• Croutons from sesame seed buns: The crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, providing an enjoyable crunch in every spoonful.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This classic side complements the cheesy flavors perfectly. Its crusty exterior and soft inside are ideal for dipping!

• Simple green salad: A light salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup, adding freshness with every bite.

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant veggie adds color and nutrition. Its mild flavor pairs nicely without overpowering the main dish.

• Potato wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, potato wedges make for a hearty side that rounds out your meal beautifully.

Enjoy crafting your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup and delight your family with this cozy dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious comfort food ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later use. Just follow the storing and reheating tips above!

What can I serve with One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. You could even add some extra croutons on top for added crunch!

Can I substitute ground beef in One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes! Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter option.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is family-friendly, packed with flavors that kids usually love. The cheesy goodness will surely win them over!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup as much as I do! It’s such a delightful dish that brings everyone together around the table. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite veggies or spices—make it your own! Happy cooking, and may every bowl bring you joy and comfort!