One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and satisfies the belly, then this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just what you need! This recipe has become a beloved favorite in our home, especially on busy weeknights when time is tight but comfort food is a must. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze! It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for family gatherings or simply curling up on the couch with your loved ones.

This delightful soup brings together all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, comforting bowl. With its quick prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious soup without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness and fun macaroni shapes, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• One Pot Wonder: Enjoy all the comforting flavors without the hassle of multiple pots and pans – less dishes means more time to relax!
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The rich combination of cheese and beef creates a filling soup that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking even more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need for this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger 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
• fresh cracked pepper
• 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 One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is wonderfully flexible! You can easily modify it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to your soup.
• Cheesy twist: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

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

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef along with one teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme, plus some salt and pepper. As it browns, crumble it with your spatula until it’s fully cooked through. Remove it from the pot when done and set aside – this beef will add hearty flavor back into our soup later!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot (no need to wipe it out), melt six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in your diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for about ten minutes until everything softens up beautifully.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Now reduce the heat slightly and stir in five cloves of minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cooking these fragrant herbs for just another minute will really enhance their flavors!

Step 5: Create the Base

Sprinkle four tablespoons of flour over those lovely veggies. Stir well to coat everything – this step helps thicken our soup later on. After stirring frequently for about one minute, pour in just a splash of chicken broth to deglaze that pot, scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom.

Step 6: Simmer It Together

Stir in the rest of your eight cups of chicken broth along with those uncooked elbow macaroni noodles and another pinch of salt and pepper. Turn up the heat to medium-high until everything comes to a simmer! Once simmering, reduce heat again to low and let it cook for about five to seven minutes until pasta is al dente.

Step 7: Finish Off Your Soup

Remove your pot from heat! Now stir in that luscious heavy cream along with eight ounces of shredded cheese until melted into gooey perfection. Don’t forget to add one teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar – it adds just the right touch! Finally, return your cooked ground beef back into the pot until heated through; season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle out servings into bowls topped generously with those crunchy sesame seed bun croutons. Garnish each bowl with sliced green onions and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired – then dig in! This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Creating a delicious One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is easy, and with a few handy tips, you can take your soup to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and high-quality cheese enhance the flavor of your soup, making it more vibrant and enjoyable.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the macaroni just until it’s firm to the bite helps maintain its texture in the soup, preventing it from becoming mushy as it simmers.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Everyone has different preferences for seasoning; tasting as you go allows you to tailor the flavors to your family’s liking.
• Make it cheesy: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! Adding a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella can provide extra creaminess and flavor depth.
• Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, you can enjoy your delicious soup for lunch or dinner later in the week!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving this comforting soup is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas on how to make your dish not only delicious but visually appealing.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle on top makes each bowl even cheesier—perfect for cheese lovers!
• Croutons: The crispy sesame seed bun croutons offer a delightful texture contrast against the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the richness of the soup while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Garden salad: A refreshing garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances out the hearty soup, adding freshness to your meal.
• Steamed broccoli: This simple side is healthy and adds a pop of color while being an excellent source of nutrients.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles served on the side create a wonderful contrast with the creamy flavors of the soup and add an extra layer of taste.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup will be a hit at any table! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but it also stores beautifully for later meals.

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.
• Make sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely and then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label and date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick upon reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup!

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I substitute for ground beef in One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

You can easily use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Each will lend a unique flavor while still keeping that cheeseburger essence!

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

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

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes! Just cool completely and freeze in portions. It keeps well for up to 3 months.

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

Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers or zucchini. They will enhance both the nutrition and flavor of your soup.

Final Thoughts

I hope this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup brings warmth and comfort to your table! It’s such a delightful blend of flavors that family members of all ages will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy making it and feel free to share your creations with friends and family—happy cooking!