If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that brings the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger right to your spoon, the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This rich and creamy soup combines savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, all simmered together with flavorful spices and a touch of tangy pickles to awaken your taste buds. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day yet comes together with surprising ease, making it a perfect dinner for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play their part in creating layers of flavor and texture. From protein-packed ground beef to crisp onions and creamy cheese, every component works in harmony in this delicious soup.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty foundation that makes this soup so satisfying.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic punch.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Creates a flavorful liquid base and keeps everything beautifully moist.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Gives the soup a creamy, comforting texture without overpowering richness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Brings that classic sharpness and melty goodness essential to cheeseburger flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a smooth, stretchy creaminess to the soup.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup for the perfect velvety consistency.
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni: Delivers tender pasta bites that soak up all those amazing flavors.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: Adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a hint of smoky warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a touch of spiciness.
- 1/2 cup diced pickles (optional): Adds a zesty crunch reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger topping.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note and pretty green color.
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is thoroughly browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step develops a deep, savory base that forms the heart of your soup. Remember to drain excess fat if your beef releases too much grease—that way the soup stays deliciously balanced and not overly oily.
Step 2: Create the Thickening Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the browned beef mixture and stir well to coat all the meat and veggies. The flour will thicken your broth, giving the soup a luscious, creamy texture later on. Making sure it’s well incorporated with no clumps at this stage is crucial.
Step 3: Add Broth, Milk, and Seasonings
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Then add the milk, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. This combination of broth, dairy, and spices is where the signature cheeseburger flavor shines through with richness and a hint of tang.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Once simmering, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Let the soup cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. The macaroni will soften perfectly and soak up all those incredible flavors, creating the comforting chew you want in every spoonful.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Turn the heat down to low and add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese along with all of the mozzarella. Stir gently until the cheese melts smoothly into the soup, thickening it further and delivering that irresistible creamy texture. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—this is when the soup really turns into that classic rich cheeseburger experience.
How to Serve One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your soup with the remaining cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy kick. If you love the tang of pickles on your cheeseburger, sprinkle on some diced pickles to add a playful crunch and brightness. Finish with chopped fresh parsley for color and a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, simple sides like crusty garlic bread, buttery dinner rolls, or a crisp green salad work beautifully. These sides add contrasting textures and flavors that complement the rich soup perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup inside a hollowed-out bread bowl to soak up every last drop. You can also sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top, or add a drizzle of sriracha for some heat. This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is versatile enough to let your creativity shine while keeping that classic cheeseburger soul.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated soup taste even better, though the pasta may absorb some liquid and thicken slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the pasta might become softer when thawed, so you may want to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore the texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly warm. Add a little extra milk or broth if it seems too thick. Avoid microwaving too aggressively to preserve creaminess and prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version. Just note that the flavor will be milder, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to maintain that rich, savory profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes, you can skip the meat and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. Add sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives to keep the hearty texture. The cheese and spices will still give you plenty of flavor.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken and select gluten-free elbow macaroni. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your broth label to be safe.
What is the best cheese to use for this soup?
Sharp cheddar offers excellent flavor and melts beautifully, while mozzarella gives creaminess without overpowering taste. Using a blend balances flavor and texture perfectly. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby for different cheese profiles.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or corn can add color, texture, and nutritional value. Just add them during the cooking stage when you add the broth, so they soften properly.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is truly a game-changer when you want comforting, flavorful food without the fuss. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with all the good stuff that makes cheeseburgers a timeless favorite. I hope you give it a try soon—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation that brings smiles all around the table.
Print
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with creamy, cheesy macaroni soup. Made in a single pot, it features ground beef, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, tender elbow macaroni, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup diced pickles (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the beef and aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, stirring occasionally. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Add the flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the meat and onions evenly with the flour, which helps thicken the soup later.
- Add broth and milk: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Then stir in the milk, mixing well to combine all liquids evenly.
- Season the soup: Add mustard powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to distribute the seasonings throughout the mixture, enhancing the classic cheeseburger flavor.
- Cook the pasta: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, and cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Add cheeses: Lower the heat to low. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt completely creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining cheddar cheese, diced pickles if using, and sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a richer and creamier soup, substitute half-and-half for milk.
- Enhance flavor by adding diced tomatoes or cooked crispy bacon.
- Be sure to stir frequently when cooking the pasta to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an additional tablespoon of flour or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
- Diced pickles add a tangy crunch, but you can omit them if preferred.
