One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup brings together all the best parts of a cheeseburger—juicy beef, gooey cheese, and a hint of tangy flavor—with the cozy appeal of a hearty soup. Add macaroni for extra comfort, and you’ve got a complete meal in a single pot! This recipe is easy to make, satisfying for the whole family, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for milder flavor)
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped pickles for a classic cheeseburger twist
• Crumbled cooked bacon
• A sprinkle of additional shredded cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up into small crumbles, until browned.
3. Remove any excess grease from the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Stir in the elbow macaroni.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add the Creaminess

1. Lower the heat and stir in the milk, heavy cream (if using), and shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Top with your favorite garnishes, like chopped pickles, bacon crumbles, or extra cheese, for a cheeseburger-inspired finish.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad.
• Add a dollop of ketchup or mustard on top for a true cheeseburger flavor!

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.

Freezing:

• Avoid freezing, as the dairy and pasta may change texture upon thawing. For a freezer-friendly version, cook and freeze the soup without the pasta, then add fresh pasta when reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Pasta Tip: Cook the pasta directly in the soup to absorb the delicious flavors, but if you plan to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately to avoid over-softening.
• Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda for added depth.
• Add Veggies: Diced bell peppers, carrots, or even peas can be added for extra nutrition.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

1. Rachael Ray: “A splash of pickle juice in the soup adds a tangy kick that ties the cheeseburger flavors together.”
2. Gordon Ramsay: “Toast your spices like paprika or chili powder with the onions to unlock their full potential.”
3. Ina Garten: “Use freshly grated cheese—it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded for a luxurious texture.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free.

2. What type of ground meat can I use?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well in this recipe.

3. How do I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.

4. Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes, stir in pre-cooked pasta during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.

5. How can I make this soup richer?
Add a dollop of cream cheese or an extra handful of shredded cheese for more creaminess.

6. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based ground meat, vegetable broth, and dairy-free cheese for a vegetarian-friendly version.

7. How do I keep the soup from becoming too thick?
Monitor the pasta as it cooks and add extra broth or milk if needed to maintain your desired consistency.

8. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Shells, rotini, or small penne all work beautifully.

9. Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love the cheeseburger flavors! For picky eaters, blend the soup slightly for a smoother texture.

10. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best results, cook the pasta fresh and add it when reheating.