One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup: 7 Comforting Flavors

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy macaroni! My One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate cozy meal that brings my family together on chilly evenings.

The rich, savory notes of ground beef and melted cheddar cheese make it a favorite at our dinner table. It’s so easy to whip up, and I love that it all comes together in one pot, less mess and more time to enjoy those hearty, delicious flavors with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a staple in your home too!

Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making my One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef (I usually go for lean to keep it a bit healthier)
• 1 onion, chopped (adds a lovely sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
• 4 cups beef broth (the base for all those rich flavors)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (perfectly bite-sized goodness)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (the more, the merrier!)
• 1 cup milk (for that creamy texture)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (a little secret for depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this step!)
• Chopped parsley for garnish (for a pop of color)

Feel free to get creative with ingredients—sometimes I toss in some veggies like carrots or peas for an extra boost of nutrition!

How to Prepare One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Now, let’s dive into making this delicious One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! The process is simple, and the best part is that you’ll only need one pot. That means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal! Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3–4 minutes. Wow, the aroma will be amazing!
3. Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a boil. This is where all those flavors start to come together.
4. Stir in the elbow macaroni and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
5. Once the macaroni is cooked, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy and dreamy.
6. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to taste it—you want that flavor to pop!
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, and enjoy your hearty bowl of goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your delicious creation with family or friends!
• Rich, Savory Flavors: The combination of ground beef, melted cheddar, and spices gives a comforting cheeseburger essence in every bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Leftover-Friendly: This soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

Tips for Success

Want to elevate your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup to the next level? Here are my top tips to ensure you nail this recipe every time:

• Use lean ground beef: I recommend going for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and fat. If you want an even leaner option, turkey or chicken works well too!
• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when browning the meat. It adds depth and richness to the soup, making those flavors pop!
• Customize your cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try Monterey Jack or even a bit of pepper jack for some heat.
• Add extra veggies: Sneaking in some diced carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach can amp up the nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Just add them in with the onions!
• Thicken it up: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold water during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Everyone’s taste is different, so don’t hesitate to adjust the salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to suit your palate. A splash of hot sauce can also give it a nice kick!
• Storage tips: This soup reheats beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the perfect One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that your family will love!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to my One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, the right sides or toppings can truly elevate the experience! Here are some of my favorite ideas to serve alongside this hearty dish:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on that delightful combination!
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. You can toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and crunchy croutons for added texture.
• Pickles: A side of pickles or pickled jalapeños adds a nice crunch and tang that complements the cheeseburger flavor beautifully.
• Cheddar Biscuits: If you want to go all out, serve some cheesy biscuits on the side. They’re perfect for soaking up that delicious broth!
• Hot Sauce: For those who love a bit of heat, keep some hot sauce on the table. A few dashes can really kick things up a notch!

These simple sides will not only complement the flavors of the soup but also make for a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for my One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 20g

This soup is not only comforting and delicious but also packs a good amount of protein to keep you satisfied. Enjoy your hearty bowl without any guilt!

FAQ Section

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for prepping ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to restore that creamy texture.

What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, ground turkey or chicken work beautifully in this recipe! You can even try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as leaner meats may need less time to brown.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. It might need a little extra milk to get that creamy consistency back!

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
No worries at all! You can substitute with any pasta you have on hand—shells, penne, or even small fusilli work great. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, and you’ll still end up with a delicious soup!

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! This soup is super versatile. Feel free to add in some diced carrots, peas, or even bell peppers when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor!

For more delicious recipes, check out these cheeseburger wraps!

And if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of beef, visit Healthline.

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