One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul and satisfies the whole family, then this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just what you need! This recipe has become a beloved staple in my home, especially on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but quick. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings or family gatherings when everyone craves a little comfort food. Plus, everything cooks up in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

What makes this cheeseburger soup special is its rich, cheesy flavor combined with the nostalgic taste of a classic cheeseburger. And the best part? It’s made without VELVEETA! You can feel good about serving this delicious dish to your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delightful soup in no time.
• Kid-friendly appeal: The cheesy goodness and familiar flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and each other’s company.
• Comforting and filling: This soup is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, keeping everyone satisfied.
• Adaptable for leftovers: It’s easy to make ahead and reheat, making it perfect for busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is all part of the fun! You likely have most of these staples in your kitchen already. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this cheesy delight:

• 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick!
• Go vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based version of this comforting soup.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Place sesame seed bun cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss gently to coat evenly. Bake them for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside. These croutons will add a delightful crunch to your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef along with one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and some salt and pepper. Cook until browned and crumbled, about five minutes. Removing the beef once cooked helps prevent it from overcooking while you prepare the veggies.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In that same pot (no need to wipe it out), melt six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cook these veggies for about ten minutes until they’re tender; this step builds great flavor as they release their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Lower the heat slightly before adding minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Stir everything together for another minute until fragrant—this will really enhance your soup’s aroma!

Step 5: Create the Base

Sprinkle four tablespoons of flour over your sautéed veggies and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cooking it for an additional minute helps eliminate any raw flour taste while thickening your soup nicely.

Step 6: Deglaze & Simmer

Pour in just a splash of chicken broth first—to deglaze the pot—scraping any browned bits from the bottom (those bits are packed with flavor!). Then add in the rest of your chicken broth along with uncooked macaroni noodles and another pinch of seasoning.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Increase heat back up to medium-high, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Once bubbling away, reduce it back down low and let it simmer for about five to seven minutes until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally so those noodles don’t stick!

Step 8: Finish It Off

Now remove your pot from heat! Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted into that creamy goodness we all love. Don’t forget that splash of white balsamic vinegar—it brightens up all those rich flavors beautifully!

Step 9: Combine & Serve

Finally, mix in your cooked ground beef again until heated through then taste-test for seasoning adjustments before serving! Ladle that sumptuous soup into bowls topped with crunchy sesame seed bun croutons and sprinkle fresh green onions plus extra cheddar cheese on top.

And there you have it—your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making this delightful soup is easy, but a few tips can take it from good to great!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavors in your soup, making it taste homemade and vibrant. Always opt for fresh over frozen when possible.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the macaroni. This allows the pasta to absorb more liquid and gives a heartier texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is classic, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda can create a unique flavor profile. Cheese choices can also affect creaminess and meltability.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stove over medium heat.

• Customize your toppings: Personalize your soup by adding extras like jalapeños for spice or avocado for creaminess. This way, everyone can make their bowl just how they like it!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Presenting your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is all about enhancing its comforting appeal. Serve it warm in big bowls, accompanied by crispy croutons and garnished beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle on top not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing melty look.
• Chopped parsley or cilantro: A touch of greenery elevates presentation while providing a hint of herbaceous freshness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment for dipping into the rich soup, garlic bread complements the cheeseburger flavors wonderfully.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Steamed broccoli: This nutritious side provides a nice crunch and makes your meal feel complete while adding color to your plate.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup will be an instant family favorite! Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly so you can savor every bite later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If storing in individual portions, use meal prep containers for easy access.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you out.

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup without ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your dietary needs.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add vegetables to my One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Is One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup kid-friendly?

Yes! This creamy and cheesy soup is usually a hit with kids, making it a great family meal option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup as much as my family does! It’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together around the table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and laughter!