When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like a cheeseburger. Now, imagine combining all the savory, hearty flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy, soul-warming soup with macaroni. Enter One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! This easy, no-fuss recipe brings together ground beef, tender macaroni, melty cheese, and a delicious broth in just one pot. It’s a meal the whole family will love, and the best part? It’s made with simple ingredients and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
2 cups water
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more, to taste)
1 cup milk
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp mustard (optional, for extra cheeseburger flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease and return the beef to the pot.
Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the beef and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Soup Base
Add the beef broth, water, and tomato paste to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, add the macaroni and Worcestershire sauce (and mustard, if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Once the macaroni is cooked, lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk, and mix until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips for Success
Ground Beef Alternatives: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter option.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or a blend for a unique twist.
Customize with Veggies: Add diced tomatoes, carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrition and color.
Make it Spicy: For a kick, sprinkle in a little cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, or add some diced jalapeños.
Why This Recipe Works
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights. It combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with the creaminess of a soup, making it a deliciously hearty meal that satisfies all your cravings. The best part? Everything cooks in one pot, which means minimal cleanup. Whether you’re craving a warm, cheesy meal on a chilly evening or need a quick, filling dish to feed your family, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for cozy dinners, casual family meals, or even as a comforting lunch. It’s versatile, filling, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a meal, all in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or just cooking for yourself, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers and comfort food, this soup is a dream come true. It’s rich, creamy, and cheesy with a hearty bite from the macaroni and beef. Plus, the recipe is so simple and easy to follow—making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something quick but delicious. The one-pot method makes cleanup a breeze, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Make this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup for your next meal—it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!