What could be more comforting than the flavors of a cheeseburger transformed into a warm, hearty soup? One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup takes your favorite burger-inspired ingredients and blends them into a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal. With tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a velvety broth loaded with cheese, this dish brings all the cozy vibes of comfort food without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this one-pot recipe is a breeze to make and is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a delightful combination of protein-packed beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, all brought together in a savory soup that’s as delicious as it is convenient. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
2. Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Toppings:
- Crumbled bacon
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra shredded cheese
3. Directions
Cooking the Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Building the Soup:
- Add beef broth, milk, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
- Mix in smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cooking the Pasta:
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and reduce heat to low. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Adding the Cheese:
- Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
4. How to Prepare
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as crispy bacon, fresh parsley, or extra cheese. Serve with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 40 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe makes 4–6 servings, depending on portion size.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. It works well in this recipe without compromising flavor.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
You can prepare the soup ahead, but add the pasta and cheese just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.
3. What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
You can substitute with small shell pasta, ditalini, or any short pasta you have on hand.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best to freeze the soup before adding the pasta and cheese. Add those ingredients after reheating for the best texture.
5. How do I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
8. Conclusion
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect blend of classic cheeseburger flavors and the heartiness of soup. With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy a cozy combination of beefy, cheesy goodness and tender pasta that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy families or anyone craving a comforting meal with minimal cleanup. The one-pot approach means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying. Customize the toppings to suit your preferences and savor a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Bon appétit!