One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Looking for a quick, hearty, and comforting dish the whole family will love? This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just the ticket! With all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger and the creamy texture of macaroni soup, it’s a satisfying meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s made without Velveeta, relying on real shredded cheddar for that rich, cheesy goodness. Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat. Cook until the beef is fully browned, and the onion is softened. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from being greasy.

2. Add the Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck during browning. Bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Cook the Macaroni

Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the macaroni uncovered for about 7-8 minutes, or until it reaches an al dente texture.

4. Stir in the Cheese and Milk

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Slowly stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup develops a creamy consistency.

5. Season and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with additional shredded cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

1. Choose Quality Ground Beef
   Use lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) to avoid excessive grease in the soup.
2. Cook Pasta to Al Dente
   Be mindful not to overcook the macaroni, as it will continue to absorb liquid while the soup sits.
3. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
   Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can make the soup less creamy. Shredding your own cheese ensures a smooth texture.
4. Customize the Flavors
   Add a teaspoon of mustard or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a tangy, burger-like flavor. For extra spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Fat Drain: Failing to drain excess fat from the ground beef can result in a greasy soup.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can lead to mushy noodles. Keep a close eye and taste-test for doneness.
• Heating Milk Too Quickly: Avoid boiling the soup after adding milk to prevent curdling. Stick to medium-low heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the consistency if it has thickened.

Freezing

While this soup can be frozen, keep in mind that the pasta may soften when reheated. To freeze, cool the soup fully, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with:

• Freshly baked bread rolls or garlic toast for dipping.
• A simple side salad for a balanced meal.
• Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

FAQs About One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

1. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta option. Adjust the cooking time as needed for the specific pasta.

2. What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe.

3. How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the soup and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

4. Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Diced carrots, celery, or peas make great additions and enhance the nutritional value.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This dish is a win-win: it’s flavorful, comforting, and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just one pot, cleanup is a breeze, and its hearty ingredients will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the customizable nature of this recipe means you can adapt it to suit your family’s preferences.

Print