One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that brings the whole family together, then this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just what you need! It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. Trust me, once you try this delightful recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

This soup is special because it combines the flavors of cheeseburgers and macaroni in a way that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. There’s no need for any fancy ingredients—just simple, wholesome goodness that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the cheesy flavor and fun macaroni shape; it’s a hit with everyone!
• One Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of ground beef, creamy cheese, and savory broth warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out or add veggies based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what you need to make this delicious One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!

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, to taste
• Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

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 fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if your family enjoys a little heat!
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty veggie version.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Heat your oven to 400 degrees. Place the 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 for about 10 minutes or until they turn crispy on the outside. These crunchy croutons will add an amazing texture contrast to your creamy soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook until browned and crumbly—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove from the pot and set aside. This step adds depth of flavor that makes your soup truly satisfying.

Step 3: Sauté Veggies

In the same pot (no need to clean it out!), melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until everything softens nicely. Sautéing these veggies brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Reduce the heat to medium again and stir in minced garlic along with the remaining dried oregano and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant—this step adds aromatic layers that elevate your soup’s flavor profile.

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Next, sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of flour and stir well to coat the vegetables thoroughly. Cooking it for an additional minute helps eliminate any raw flour taste while thickening our soup beautifully.

Step 6: Deglaze & Simmer

Pour in a splash of chicken broth while scraping up those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom of the pot (don’t waste that flavor!). Then add the remaining chicken broth along with uncooked elbow macaroni noodles plus another pinch of salt and pepper. Turn up the heat until it simmers gently.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Once simmering, reduce heat again and let it cook on low for about 5-7 minutes until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to keep noodles from sticking; this ensures every bite is perfectly cooked!

Step 8: Add Cream & Cheese

Remove from heat at this point before stirring in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted smoothly into your soup base! Then mix in white balsamic vinegar—it adds brightness that balances all those rich flavors beautifully.

Step 9: Combine & Season

Return cooked ground beef back into your pot to warm through as everything melds together nicely over medium heat for just a couple more minutes! Taste-test now too—you can adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your delicious soup into bowls topped with those crispy sesame seed bun croutons along with fresh green onions & extra shredded cheddar cheese if you wish! Gather around with loved ones because it’s time to dig in!

And there you have it—the ultimate comfort food experience right at home with this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making the perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh ingredients not only add vibrant flavor but also enhance the overall nutritional value of your soup.

• Don’t skip the deglazing: Deglazing with a splash of chicken broth helps lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, ensuring every spoonful is packed with taste.

• Stir frequently: To prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom, stir occasionally while it simmers. This ensures even cooking and a creamy texture throughout.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for maximum flavor.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove for a comforting meal any night of the week!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with flair can elevate your dining experience! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onion: Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color that brightens up each bowl.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: A classic choice that melts beautifully into the warm soup, enhancing its cheesiness.
• Chopped fresh parsley: For a hint of freshness and a touch of elegance, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread complements the cheesiness of the soup perfectly.
• Simple green salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Steamed broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only introduces more color but also brings additional nutrients to your meal.
• Cornbread muffins: These slightly sweet muffins pair wonderfully with savory soups, creating a delightful balance that everyone will love.

Enjoy creating this comforting bowl of One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup for your family or friends. It’s sure to warm hearts and fill bellies!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you always have a warm, comforting meal ready to go.

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.
• Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before freezing.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, consider portioning it out for easy meals later!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting soup:

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup without meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or even beans for a hearty vegetarian version.

How can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup healthier?

You can use lean ground beef or turkey and swap heavy cream for a lower-fat milk alternative. Adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers also boosts nutrition!

What other toppings pair well with cheeseburger soup?

Feel free to get creative! Sour cream, diced tomatoes, or even avocado make great additions alongside the green onions and shredded cheese.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes! Gluten-free elbow macaroni works well as a substitute. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every cheesy spoonful and don’t hesitate to share your twists on it—happy cooking!