One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is just what you need! This recipe brings together the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, comforting soup that cooks up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone around the table.

What makes this recipe even more special is that it’s made without any processed cheese like VELVEETA, so you get all the richness and flavor from wholesome ingredients. Plus, everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those nights when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and familiar flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty—this soup is the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. You probably have most of these staples in your kitchen already!

For the Soup

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked pepper

For the Topping

• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Sliced green onion, for garnish
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

Variations

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is wonderfully flexible! If you’re looking to mix things up a bit or cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale near the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat!
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms for a hearty plant-based version.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

First things first—let’s make those crunchy sesame seed bun croutons! Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Spread the diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and give them a good toss to coat evenly. Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside. These little bites will add such a delightful texture to your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next up, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add in your ground beef along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step adds so much flavor right at the base of our soup! Once cooked through, remove it from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Now it’s time to build that incredible flavor by sautéing our vegetables! In the same pot (no need to clean it out), melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in diced onions, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and another good pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 10 minutes until everything softens up beautifully.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Reduce the heat slightly and stir in minced garlic along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cook for about another minute—this will make your kitchen smell amazing! It’s essential to add these herbs at this stage so they release their full flavor into the soup.

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Now we’re going to thicken our soup base! Sprinkle in flour while stirring constantly to coat all those lovely veggies. Let this cook for about one minute; this will help create that creamy texture we want.

Step 6: Deglaze & Simmer

Pour in just a splash of chicken broth first to deglaze the pot—scraping up all those tasty bits stuck on the bottom is key! Then stir in the rest of your chicken broth along with uncooked macaroni noodles. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Once it’s simmering nicely (watch those bubbles!), reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until your pasta is al dente. Remember to stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 8: Add Cream & Cheese

Remove from heat once done! Stir in heavy cream along with shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth—this is where all that cheesiness comes from!

Step 9: Final Touches

Finally, add that teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar for brightness before mixing back in your cooked ground beef. Heat through gently over medium heat until everything is warm again. Taste it—season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 10: Serve It Up!

Scoop generous portions into bowls topped with those crispy sesame seed bun croutons! Don’t forget garnishing with fresh green onions and extra cheddar cheese if you like—it’s pure comfort food perfection!

Now gather around your table and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Creating the perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is all about maximizing flavor and ensuring that every bite is creamy and comforting. Here are some pro tips to take your soup to the next level!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate your soup’s flavor profile. Consider adding chopped parsley or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.

• Adjust Cheese to Taste: Cheese lovers might want to go a bit overboard! Feel free to mix different types of cheese, like mozzarella for extra creaminess or pepper jack for a spicy kick, enhancing both texture and flavor.

• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Scraping up those delicious bits from the bottom of the pot after browning the beef adds depth to your soup’s flavor. It’s where all those savory notes come together!

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the macaroni just until al dente ensures it retains its shape in the soup, providing a nice bite and preventing it from getting mushy as it sits.

• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. They add color, nutrition, and make your soup even heartier without altering the delicious cheeseburger vibe.

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is an opportunity to get creative! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch that complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Extra Shredded Cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top creates a melty layer that looks inviting and adds an extra cheesy goodness.
• Croutons: The sesame seed bun croutons not only provide crunch but also tie back into the cheeseburger theme, making each spoonful delightful.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this soup. The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the cheeseburger taste beautifully while giving you something scrumptious to dip.

• Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad drizzled with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. It helps balance out flavors while adding some crunch.

• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans is an excellent side option. They add color and nutrition without overshadowing the main dish.

• Fruit Salad: For something sweet after your meal, a light fruit salad can cleanse your palate perfectly. Choose seasonal fruits for an added touch of freshness!

Now you’re ready to serve up your comforting bowl of One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with style! Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you find the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion, or use resealable freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
• You can also use a microwave; just heat in short intervals and stir in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just follow the recipe as directed!

How do I store One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup leftovers?

Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I substitute ingredients in this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes! Feel free to swap out vegetables or use different types of cheese based on your preferences. Just keep in mind that changing ingredients might affect cooking times and flavors slightly.

Is this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup kid-friendly?

Definitely! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor usually appeal to kids, making it a hit at family dinner tables.

What can I serve with One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or some crusty bread. You could also serve it with extra croutons on top for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup as much as I do! It’s not just easy and quick; it’s packed with delicious flavors that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Perfect for any night of the week, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!