One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that the whole family will love, then this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just what you need! This recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s no wonder this soup has become a go-to dish in my kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare. You’ll only need one pot to create this delicious masterpiece, which means less cleanup for you! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just making dinner on a Tuesday, this soup fits right in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• One Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, meaning less hassle and more time to enjoy your meal!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids (and adults!) love the savory taste of cheeseburgers combined with creamy macaroni.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a satisfying meal that leaves everyone happy.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Make a big batch ahead of time; it reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome items come together to create a delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for your 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 to taste
• fresh cracked pepper to taste
• 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 wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you’re craving some heat.
• Cheese it up: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees. Place the diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss until they’re well-coated. Bake for about ten minutes until they’re crispy on the outside. This adds an amazing crunch to your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef along with one teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme, plus a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook until browned and crumbled, which should take about five minutes. It’s important to fully cook the meat so that every bite of soup is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Without wiping out the pot, add six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. When it melts, toss in your diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook everything together for about ten minutes until your veggies soften up nicely—this builds a flavorful base for your soup.

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 for another minute releases their aromatic oils into the mix—trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Next, sprinkle four tablespoons of flour into the veggie mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for another minute while stirring frequently—this helps thicken our delicious soup.

Step 6: Deglaze & Simmer

Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty bits stuck at the bottom. Then add in the rest of your broth along with uncooked macaroni noodles and another pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Step 7: Cook Until Al Dente

Once it’s simmering away happily, reduce heat to low and let it cook for about five to seven minutes until your pasta is al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 8: Creamy Finish

Remove from heat and stir in one cup of heavy cream along with eight ounces of shredded cheese until melted into creamy goodness. Then mix in one teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar—the acidity adds such depth!

Step 9: Combine & Serve

Finally, add back in that deliciously cooked ground beef we set aside earlier. Heat everything together over medium heat until warmed through; season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot topped with those crunchy sesame seed bun croutons along with green onions and extra shredded cheese on top!

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze, but with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor profile of your soup and add a vibrant touch to your presentation.

• Customize your cheese: While sharp cheddar provides a great flavor, feel free to mix in some pepper jack or gouda for an extra kick and creaminess.

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the macaroni until just tender will keep it from becoming mushy in the soup, ensuring each bite has the perfect texture.

• Add veggies: You can easily sneak in more nutrition by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. They not only boost the health factor but also add color and crunch.

• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer without the lid. Conversely, if it’s too thick for your taste, simply stir in a little more broth before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving this comforting soup is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments that complement its rich flavors.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: These add a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of extra cheese on top enhances the cheesiness and adds visual appeal.
• Croutons from sesame seed buns: These not only provide texture but also bring a hint of toasted flavor that ties back to the ingredients used.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and adds an aromatic touch that everyone loves.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers are easy to prepare and bring earthy flavors to your meal.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that pairs well with this delicious soup.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat this delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• It’s best to freeze without adding cream and cheese; you can stir those in when reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, place the soup in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If you’re using the microwave, heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that might help you out!

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup without ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version while keeping it just as delicious.

How do I thicken my One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

If you want your soup thicker, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour when cooking the vegetables or blend some of the soup and stir it back into the pot.

Can I use a different type of cheese in this cheeseburger soup recipe?

Of course! While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different twist.

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

This delightful dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup as I am! It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy making this comforting dish at home—it’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!