One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that brings the family together, look no further than this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This recipe is not just about comfort food; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy delight that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering, this soup is perfect for any occasion!

What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity and the fact that everything cooks in one pot! You’ll enjoy less cleanup and more time savoring the deliciousness with your loved ones. Plus, it’s made without any processed cheese, making it a wholesome choice for your family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, even picky eaters will come back for seconds.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and each other’s company.
• Customizable: Feel free to make adjustments based on your family’s preferences—it’s all about what makes you happy!
• Comforting Flavor: The rich flavors of beef and cheese create a warm hug in a bowl that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these items to create a delicious meal that warms both body and soul!

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Creamy Goodness

• 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
• Fresh cracked pepper

For the Croutons and Garnish

• 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 incredibly flexible! Feel free to adapt it based on what you have at home or your family’s taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese options.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

First things first—let’s make those crunchy sesame seed bun croutons! Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread diced bun cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss until they’re evenly coated. Bake them for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside but soft inside. These croutons will add delightful 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 few pinches of salt and pepper. Brown the meat while breaking it up with a spatula until it’s fully cooked through (about five minutes). This step builds flavor as you’ll be using the same pot for the rest of the soup!

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

Next, melt six tablespoons of butter in that flavorful pot over medium heat—no need to wipe it clean! Toss in diced onions, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mix over medium-high heat for about ten minutes until everything begins to soften. This creates a tasty base that’s essential for our soup.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

Reduce heat to medium again, then stir in minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cook this aromatic mix for an additional minute until fragrant—this melds those wonderful flavors together!

Step 5: Create Your Roux

Sprinkle four tablespoons of flour into the pot while stirring well to coat all those veggies. Keep cooking for another minute; this helps thicken our soup later on.

Step 6: Deglaze with Broth

Now it’s time to deglaze! Pour in just a splash of chicken broth—this will help lift all those delicious brown bits off the bottom of your pot (trust me; these bits are pure flavor magic).

Step 7: Stir in Broth and Macaroni

Next, pour in the rest of your eight cups of chicken broth along with uncooked elbow macaroni. Add another pinch of salt and pepper before bringing everything to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Step 8: Simmer Until Tender

Once simmering, reduce heat to low. Let your soup cook gently for about five to seven minutes until pasta is al dente—give it an occasional stir so nothing sticks!

Step 9: Add Cream & Cheese

Remove from heat once done! Stir in one cup of heavy cream followed by eight ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted into creamy perfection.

Step 10: Finish It Off

Finally, add one teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar along with that cooked ground beef we set aside earlier. Heat everything through on medium heat just long enough for everything to warm up nicely—season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 11: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle up generous portions into bowls topped with those crispy croutons you’ve made earlier! Garnish with sliced green onions and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired—then dig in!

And there you have it—a nourishing bowlful of One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making the perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making it more enjoyable for everyone at the table.
• Don’t skip the deglazing: Scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot adds depth to your soup’s flavor. It’s those little bits that pack a punch!
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different flavor preferences, so don’t hesitate to taste your soup and adjust salt, pepper, or even add a bit more vinegar for acidity.
• Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is delicious, trying different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda can create unique flavor profiles and make your soup even more delightful!
• Make it ahead of time: This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Presentation is key when serving this delicious soup! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: They add a beautiful pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the cheeseburger theme.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle on top not only looks great but also melts slightly into the warm soup, enhancing its cheesy goodness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, these add a touch of spice that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness that balances out the richness of the soup.
• Steamed Broccoli: This simple vegetable side brings color and nutrients to your meal while providing a nice textural contrast to the creamy soup.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft, buttery cornbread muffins not only complement the flavors but also provide a sweet contrast that’s truly satisfying.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish and elevating it with thoughtful garnishes and sides! It’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, making your busy days a little easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or an extra cup of vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version!

How long does it take to make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

This recipe takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and comforting meal option for busy nights!

Can I use different types of cheese in this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a unique twist on flavor.

Is One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup kid-friendly?

Definitely! This creamy, cheesy soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. Kids love the fun combination of flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re feeling inspired to try this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! It’s not just quick and easy but also packed with flavors that comfort and satisfy. This recipe is special because it brings everyone together around the table, and I can’t wait for you to experience that joy. Enjoy making this delicious dish, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations with me. Happy cooking!