One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup


 

"A Creamy, Cheesy, Kid-Approved Dinner in One Pot!"

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect blend of hearty and comforting flavors, combining ground beef, pasta, and cheese in a creamy broth. It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Best of all, it’s ready in one pot for minimal cleanup—every busy mom's dream!


Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef – The star of the soup, giving it a rich, savory flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced – Brings an aromatic, garlicky touch.
  • 4 cups beef broth – Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
  • 2 cups water – Helps cook the pasta to perfection.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet element.
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked) – The perfect pasta for soaking up all the delicious flavors.

For Creaminess and Cheesiness:

  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half – Makes the soup rich and creamy.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Adds that classic cheeseburger flavor.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing the flavors.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Crumbled bacon – For an extra savory touch.
  • Chopped pickles – Adds a tangy, cheeseburger-inspired twist.
  • Fresh parsley or green onions – Brightens up the dish.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

  1. Cook the Ground Beef:

    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
  3. Build the Base:

    • Pour in the beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine.
  4. Cook the Pasta:

    • Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
  5. Make It Creamy:

    • Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
  6. Season and Serve:

    • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like crumbled bacon, pickles, or fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Kid-Friendly: The cheeseburger-inspired flavors make this soup irresistible to little ones.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
  • Customizable: Swap ground beef for turkey, use gluten-free pasta, or add veggies like diced bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir frequently and remove the soup from heat as soon as the pasta is tender to avoid it becoming mushy.
  2. Cheese Choice Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting and flavor—pre-shredded cheese can make the soup grainy.
  3. Leftover Love: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.