One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a cozy, comforting dish that combines the creamy delight of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger? This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the answer. With just one pot and simple ingredients, you’ll create a hearty meal perfect for cold days, family dinners, or easy weeknight meals. This recipe packs ground beef, cheese, tender macaroni, and flavorful spices into a creamy broth that satisfies every craving without requiring multiple dishes or complex preparation steps.

Overview of the Recipe

This one-pot recipe captures everything you love about cheeseburgers and mac ‘n’ cheese in a rich, creamy soup. Ground beef adds a hearty texture, while the macaroni provides a comforting pasta base that cooks right in the soup, soaking up all the rich flavors. The cheese and cream bring an indulgent creaminess that coats each spoonful, creating a filling and satisfying dish. The best part? It all comes together in just one pot, making it ideal for a quick clean-up afterward.

History and Origin

Macaroni and cheese is a well-loved American classic, with roots tracing back to Southern Italy and France, where pasta and cheese sauces first combined. Cheeseburger soup is a relatively modern creation, merging the American love for burgers with the convenience of soup. This combination allows you to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger with a twist. By adding macaroni, this recipe pays homage to the popular comfort foods, creating a perfect blend that brings warmth and nostalgia.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup uncooked macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, or crumbled turkey bacon

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
• As it cooks, break up the beef into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
• Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy soup.

2. Add Onion and Garlic

• Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.
• Add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

3. Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Seasonings

• Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes, including their juices.
• Add the basil, oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything to combine well.
• Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

4. Cook the Macaroni

• Once the soup is simmering, add the uncooked macaroni.
• Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

5. Add Cheese and Cream

• Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option).
• Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Avoid boiling the soup at this stage, as this can cause the dairy to separate.

6. Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crumbled turkey bacon if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This macaroni cheeseburger soup is perfect on its own, but here are some additional serving ideas:

• With Fresh Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• With a Side Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs well.
• As a Game Day Treat: Serve in small bowls as a warm appetizer for gatherings or game days.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs nicely with light, refreshing sides to balance the rich flavors:

• Crispy French Fries: The classic burger pairing! Serve a small portion of fries for a full cheeseburger-inspired meal.
• Pickles: The acidity of pickles complements the richness of the soup.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the cheesy richness of the soup.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Lighter Version: Replace the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey and use milk instead of heavy cream.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth.
3. Spicy Kick: Add diced green chilis, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
4. Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery to the onion and garlic step for a veggie-packed version.
5. Low-Carb Option: Swap the macaroni for cauliflower florets, cooking them until just tender.

Health Benefits Notes

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, while indulgent, can offer some nutritional benefits:

• Protein: The ground beef provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and energy.
• Calcium: Cheddar cheese and milk or cream contribute calcium, which is vital for bone health.
• Fiber: If you add extra vegetables or use whole-wheat macaroni, this dish can provide additional fiber, beneficial for digestive health.
• Vitamin A: Adding diced tomatoes brings vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to reach the desired consistency.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: While it’s possible to freeze the soup, the texture of the macaroni may change slightly upon reheating. If planning to freeze, consider cooking the macaroni separately and adding it fresh when reheating.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Try using a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Q: What can I substitute for beef broth?
A: You can use chicken or vegetable broth if needed. Beef broth adds a richer flavor, but the soup will still taste delicious with other options.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: For a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it in before adding the macaroni.

Conclusion

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines the best of macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of a cheeseburger in one convenient pot. With customizable ingredients and optional toppings, it’s a versatile choice perfect for family dinners or comforting meals on chilly nights. From the tender macaroni to the rich cheese and creamy broth, each spoonful brings a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Try this recipe today to enjoy a comforting, one-pot meal that brings warmth to the table without the hassle of multiple dishes.

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

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Description

This easy one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup brings the classic cheeseburger flavors into a warm, creamy, and satisfying soup. Combining seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, cheddar cheese, and a hint of garlic, this dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s hearty, flavorful, and requires minimal clean-up.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup uncooked macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, crumbled turkey bacon

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Instructions

• Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
• Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with juice, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Cook the Macaroni: Add uncooked macaroni to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
• Add Cheese and Cream: Reduce the heat to low, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream (or milk) until melted and creamy.
• Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with additional cheese, green onions, or crumbled turkey bacon as desired.

Notes

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced green chilis.
• Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and swap heavy cream for milk.
• Vegetarian: Substitute beef with plant-based meat and use vegetable broth.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g

Keywords: Cheeseburger soup, macaroni cheeseburger soup, one-pot soup recipe, cheeseburger macaroni soup