This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines the hearty, comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the creamy goodness of macaroni soup. Packed with ground beef, tender pasta, melted cheese, and a flavorful broth, it’s a dish that satisfies cravings for both burgers and comfort food. The best part? It all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
For the Broth:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Add-Ins:
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked macaroni or small pasta shells
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions or parsley
- Crumbled bacon
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the diced onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- Add the beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
- Stir the uncooked macaroni into the pot.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Cream
- Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the heavy cream or milk, stirring to combine.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, crumbled bacon, or extra cheese for added flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or rolls for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup
- Use Quality Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
- Cook Pasta Just Right: Avoid overcooking the macaroni—it should be tender but still hold its shape.
- Customize the Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even corn for more texture and flavor.
- Make It Healthier: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is:
- Hearty and Satisfying: Combines the best of burgers, pasta, and soup in one dish.
- Creamy and Cheesy: Loaded with melted cheese for ultimate comfort.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal cleanup.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping.
- Add a glass of your favorite beverage to make it a cozy dinner.