One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner option that warms the soul and brings the family together, this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in our household because it combines all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of soup. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

This soup is truly a crowd-pleaser, and you can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or for a casual get-together, everyone will rave about this delightful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic nights when you still want a delicious meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness paired with tender macaroni and hearty beef.
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to make it your own.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and savory beef creates a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already!

• 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
• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• sliced green onion, for garnish
• shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider if you want to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who like some heat.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty meatless option.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

First things first! Heat your oven to 400 degrees. Spread the sesame seed bun cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss gently until they’re evenly coated. Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside. These croutons will add fun texture to your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef along with one teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme, plus a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Brown the beef while crumbling it with a spatula until it’s fully cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside; this step builds that rich flavor we all love.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

In that same large pot (no need to wipe it out!), melt six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in one cup each of diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for about ten minutes until the veggies are tender—this is where all those beautiful flavors start coming together!

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

Now reduce the heat slightly and toss in five minced garlic cloves along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cooking these aromatic ingredients for another minute gives them time to release their lovely fragrance—trust me; your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle four tablespoons of flour over your sautéed veggies, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook this mixture for another minute while stirring frequently; this helps thicken our soup as we add more liquid later.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pot

Pour just a splash of chicken broth into the pot to deglaze it—scrape up all those delicious bits stuck at the bottom! These little morsels pack flavor that will enhance our soup.

Step 7: Simmer Away

Now stir in the rest of your chicken broth along with eight ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni noodles and another pinch of salt and pepper. Turn up the heat to medium-high until it reaches a gentle simmer.

Step 8: Cook Your Pasta

Once simmering, reduce the heat again and let it cook on low for about five to seven minutes until your pasta is al dente. Remember to stir occasionally so those noodles don’t stick!

Step 9: Creamy Goodness

Remove your pot from heat before stirring in one cup of heavy cream alongside eight ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This step adds richness that makes every bite creamy perfection!

Step 10: Finish It Off

Finally, add one teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar followed by returning that cooked ground beef back into the mix. Give everything another gentle heat-up over medium until warmed through—season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 11: Serve It Up

Dish out your delicious soup into bowls topped with those crispy sesame seed bun croutons you made earlier! Finish off with fresh sliced green onions and an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese if you desire—and there you have it! Enjoy this comforting One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with loved ones around!

This recipe is sure to become a staple at your table!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze, especially when you keep these handy tips in mind!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Chopping your vegetables and measuring out all the ingredients before you start cooking can save you time and make the cooking process smoother.

• Use fresh herbs when possible: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile of your soup. If you have access to fresh oregano and thyme, use them instead of dried for an even more vibrant taste.

• Don’t rush the browning of beef: Taking the time to properly brown your ground beef adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. Allow the beef to get a nice sear before moving on to the next step.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor twist. Just be sure they melt well!

• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer or add a little more flour. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving up this comforting soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present it beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only adds color but also brings a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top offers creaminess that complements the cheesiness of the soup perfectly.
• Extra shredded cheese: Who doesn’t love more cheese? A sprinkle right before serving ensures every bowl is decadently cheesy.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is great for dipping into the soup, making each bite even more delightful.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing brings freshness and balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted veggies: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables add texture and nutrients to your meal while being simple to prepare alongside.
• Cornbread muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a wonderful contrast in flavors and textures, perfect for soaking up all that cheesy goodness.

Enjoy crafting this delicious One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! Your family will surely appreciate this warm and hearty meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, saving time on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You may need to add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup without beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.

How long does One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping!

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a comforting meal that brings smiles all around. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to warm your heart. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to share your experience – I’d love to hear how it turns out!