Searching for a simple comfort food? One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a choice to consider. This easy-to-make dish brings together everything you love about mac, cheese and juicy cheeseburgers; all in one satisfying bowl. With a few simple ingredients and a single pot, you can whip up a hearty meal the whole family will devour. Get ready to enjoy a cozy, flavor-full soup that’s as indulgent as it is effortless!
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About Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
A Fusion of Favorites
This Soup is the best of both worlds: the gooey, cheesy comfort of mac and cheese meets the bold, savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger. Ground beef, cheddar cheese, and elbow macaroni come together in a creamy broth, creating a rich dish that’s perfect for most times of the year.
Perfect for All Occasions
This one pot macaroni cheeseburger soup is a go-to for busy evenings when you want a meal that’s quick, filling, and delicious. It’s an excellent choice for cold-weather comfort food or meal prepping. More, it’s simple to make, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor in less than 1 hour.
Easily Customizable
Interested in making this cheeseburger soup with elbow macaroni your own? You can easily switch things up! Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives, experiment with cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, or add fun toppings like crispy turkey bacon, jalapeños, or even chopped pickles for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you prefer it classic or with a twist, this soup is highly adaptable!
Ingredients to Make Cheeseburger Soup with Elbow Macaroni
- Ground Beef – The heart of this dish, giving it that juicy, burger-like flavor. Feel free to switch it up with turkey or plant-based alternatives.
- Elbow Macaroni – The perfect pasta choice, designed to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Cheddar Cheese – The key to a velvety, rich texture. Opt for sharp cheddar for bold flavor or mix in gouda or Monterey Jack for a twist.
- Heavy Cream & Broth – The dynamic duo that makes this soup ultra-luxurious. Broth brings depth, while heavy cream creates that signature silky finish.
- Aromatic Veggies – Onion, carrots, and celery add layers of flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- Seasonings – Garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper—simple, yet essential for that perfect balance of flavors.
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Cook the Beef & Sauté the Vegetables
The secret to rich flavor? Let the beef do its thing.
- Add your ground beef to a hot pot and let it sizzle without constant stirring. Allow it to develop a golden-brown crust before breaking it apart.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic. Once fully browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, melt some butter and add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. This is where the flavor comes alive! Let the vegetables soften, soaking up all the delicious beefy bits left behind.
Step 2: Build the Creamy Soup Base
Time to transform broth into a creamy, dreamy soup.
- Add minced garlic, oregano, and thyme to the pot, stirring until fragrant; about 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in some flour and stir continuously. This step will thicken the soup, making every spoonful extra velvety.
- Gradually pour in the broth while stirring, taking your time to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni & Add the Cheese
Now for the best part: the cheese!
- Stir in your elbow macaroni and let it simmer right in the broth over medium heat. Cooking it this way infuses the pasta with extra flavor!
- Once the macaroni is tender, pour in the heavy cream and a generous amount of cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is melted and goodly creamy.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
The finishing touch? Reuniting everything for the perfect bite.
- Return the cooked beef to the pot, allowing all the ingredients to marry together. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a couple more minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you crave some heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or add a splash of hot sauce.
- Serve hot, and for an indulgent touch, top your soup with crispy turkey bacon, diced pickles, or a drizzle of mustard to capture that full cheeseburger experience.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Want to take your cheeseburger soup with elbow macaroni to the next level? These pro tips will help you achieve the creamiest, most flavorful bowl every time!
Shred Your Own Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy instead of velvety smooth. For the best melt, grab a block of sharp cheddar and shred it fresh!
Use Quality Broth
Your broth is the foundation of flavor. Opt for low-sodium beef or chicken broth so you can control the salt level and let the other ingredients shine.
Want a Thicker Soup?
If you love an extra-thick, hearty soup, try:
- Adding more cheese
- Letting it simmer a little longer to reduce excess liquid
- Stirring in a small amount of cornstarch slurry for a silky-smooth texture
What To Avoid?
The simplest dish to make can go wrong if you’re not careful! Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced soup.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese
That bagged shredded cheese may be convenient, but it contains anti-caking agents that stop it from melting smoothly. Instead, grate fresh cheddar for a silky, creamy texture that blends nicely into the soup.
Overcooking the Macaroni
No one likes soggy pasta! Elbow macaroni can become mushy if it sits too long in the hot broth. To avoid this:
- Add it towards the end of cooking so it stays firm.
- Cook just until al dente, as it will continue softening in the warm soup.
Not Browning the Meat Properly
Skipping a golden caramelized sear on your beef is a mistake. Proper browning:
- Caramelizes the meat, bringing out rich, savory flavors.
- Adds depth to the overall taste of the soup.
- Creates a flavorful base, especially if you deglaze the pan with broth.
Taking the time to grate fresh cheese, cook the pasta correctly, and achieve a deep, golden sear on the meat will give you a high-quality cheeseburger soup!
Serving Ideas: Take Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup to Another Level
Elevate your single one-macaroni cheeseburger soup beyond the ordinary. These serving ideas will help transform this simple meal into a showstopper!
Sesame Seed Bun Croutons for a True Cheeseburger Vibe
Dice up sesame seed buns, toss them in a little butter, and toast until golden brown. These crispy croutons bring an authentic burger feel and add the perfect crunch!
Fun & Flavorful Garnishes
A bowl of cheeseburger soup with elbow macaroni is already delicious, but toppings make it even better:
- Extra cheddar; Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!
- Green onions; Adds freshness and a mild bite.
- Diced pickles; A tangy surprise that mimics a real burger.
- Crispy turkey bacon; Because a turkey bacon cheeseburger soup is next-level!
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal
- Garlic bread – Scoop up that creamy goodness!
- A crisp green salad – Balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted veggies – Try Brussels sprouts or asparagus for a tasty contrast.
A few simple touches can turn this macaroni cheeseburger soup into a gourmet experience. So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own!
Final Thoughts
This one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort food; rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly night or looking for a quick dinner, this soup delivers the best parts of a cheeseburger in a warm, hearty bowl. Plus, with easy customization options, you can make it your own by adjusting the cheese, protein, or toppings. Now it’s your turn! Try this cheeseburger soup with elbow macaroni and let me know how you like it. Did you add any fun twists? Drop a comment below and share your favorite way to enjoy this hearty dish!
If you’re interested in more comforting dishes, don’t miss this Chickarina Soup. it’s just as easy and comforting!
Print Recipe
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- elbow macaroni cheddar cheese, heavy cream, broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Instructions
- Brown beef, 2. sauté veggies, 3. build soup base, 4. cook macaroni, 5. add cheese, 6. combine.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated cheese and avoid overcooking the macaroni. Customize with toppings like bacon or jalapeños for added flavor!
- Approximately 400 calories per serving (varies based on specific ingredients)
FAQs About Cheeseburger Soup with Macaroni
Can I Make This Cheeseburger Soup Without Velveeta?
Yes! This recipe skips processed cheese and uses real cheddar for a rich, creamy texture. For an extra smooth finish, opt for freshly shredded cheese, which melts better than pre-packaged varieties.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
To keep your one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup fresh:
Storage: Let the soup cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over low-medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from separating.
Can I Make Cheeseburger Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, but with a trick! If making in advance, cook the macaroni noodles separately and store them apart from the soup base. When reheating, add the noodles back in to avoid mushy pasta. This way, your soup stays fresh and delicious!
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese soup?
You can swap it with a mix of heavy cream, shredded cheddar, and a little butter for a homemade version. Other options include: cream of cheese, nacho cheese sauce, or a blend of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Can you make soup without broth or stock?
Yes! Use water with extra seasonings for flavor, or try milk for a creamier base. Adding sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs can help deepen the taste.
Is Velveeta good for soups?
Absolutely! Velveeta melts smoothly, making soups extra creamy and rich. If you love a velvety texture, it’s a great choice.