Name: Creamy One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken); 2 cups Elbow Macaroni (Can substitute with any small pasta shape); 4 cups Beef Broth (Use vegetable stock for vegetarian option); 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (Can use a cheese blend or dairy-free alternative); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free options); 1 cup Milk (Non-dairy milk can be used); 1 medium Onion (Chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); Seasonings (e.g., salt, pepper) (Adjust according to personal preference); Diced Jalapeños (For a spicy kick); Shredded Cheese (Reserve some for topping before serving); Fresh Herbs (Consider fresh parsley or chives)

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As I stirred the bubbling pot of soul-warming goodness, the aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cherished family dinners. This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is my go-to recipe for those cozy nights when comfort food calls. With its rich blend of tender macaroni, hearty ground beef, and creamy cheddar, it’s the ultimate dish to warm you from the inside out. What’s even better? You can whip it up in just one pot, which means minimal cleanup and more time to relax with loved ones. Plus, its customizable ingredients make it easy to adapt for gluten-free eaters or to sneak in some veggies for added nutrition. Are you ready to cook up a heavenly bowl of nostalgia?

Why is this soup a must-try?

Simplicity to Love: This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is effortless to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills while delivering maximum flavor.

Comforting Richness: The delightful marriage of creamy cheese and savory ground beef creates a warm, comforting bowl perfect for chilly evenings.

Customizable Delight: Easily swap ingredients for your dietary needs—try using gluten-free pasta or add your favorite veggies to boost nutrition!

Family Friendly: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or a crowd, this soup’s familiar flavors will win everyone over.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. Want something similar? Consider trying my Cajun Potato Soup for another quick comfort dish!

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Ground Beef – Provides protein and richness; feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Elbow Macaroni – The classic pasta for this dish; any small pasta shape like shells or rotini works as well.
Beef Broth – Adds depth of flavor; opt for vegetable stock if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Cheddar Cheese – Creates the creamy cheese sauce; swap for a cheese blend or dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; for gluten-free options, consider gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
Milk – Contributes to the soup’s creaminess; non-dairy milk can be a great substitute if desired.
Onion – Adds an aromatic base flavor; fresh, chopped onion is recommended, but powdered onion can work in a pinch.
Garlic – Enhances the flavor profile; use fresh minced garlic or garlic powder to taste.
Seasonings (e.g., salt, pepper) – Enhance the overall taste; adjust according to personal preference for the best results.

Optional Toppings

Diced Jalapeños – For a spicy kick, add these to your bowl for an extra layer of flavor.
Shredded Cheese – Reserve some to sprinkle on top just before serving for an even creamier finish.
Fresh Herbs – Consider fresh parsley or chives to brighten up the dish just before serving.

With this simple and customizable ingredient list, the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup promises to deliver comfort and satisfaction in each delicious spoonful!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Introduce one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves to the pot with the beef. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir frequently, ensuring the garlic does not burn, as it will add a wonderful aroma to your dish.

Step 3: Create the Roux
Sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and stir it into the meat mixture, cooking for about 1 minute. This will create a roux, thicken your soup, and develop additional flavor. Stir continuously until the flour is fully incorporated, giving it a golden color that signifies it’s ready for the next step.

Step 4: Add Broth and Milk
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Increase the heat slightly until the mixture comes to a simmer, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally; look for steam rising and small bubbles forming, indicating that it’s heating up properly.

Step 5: Cook the Macaroni
Once simmering, add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring well. Lower the heat to medium and let the macaroni cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Ensure to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Stir in the Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and creamy. This will give the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup its signature comforting texture. The mixture should be smooth and rich, a delicious achievement in just one pot!

Step 7: Adjust the Consistency and Season
Check the consistency of your soup—if it’s too thick for your liking, you can add a bit more broth or milk until it reaches your desired creaminess. Taste your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference, ensuring it’s packed with flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with optional toppings like fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of this delicious One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup—a perfect dish for chilly evenings!

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own; your taste buds will thank you!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to keep this delicious soup friendly for those with gluten sensitivities. It’s just as satisfying without sacrificing flavor!
Turkey Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take. The soup will still have that comforting taste you crave.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with a mix of hearty vegetables or beans such as black beans or lentils. This adds fiber and a wonderful, wholesome texture!
Cheese Variety: Try mixing in different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist. This makes each bowl even more interesting!
Extra Veggies: Add in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for a nutritional boost. These veggies work beautifully with the creamy soup base.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for some heat. It’s a fantastic way to elevate the flavor profile!
Creamy Twist: For an even creamier finish, replace half of the milk with heavy cream. It transforms the soup into an indulgent, velvety delight!

For more comforting soup options, check out my recipes for Chicken Lasagna Soup or Maple Brie Soup. There’s a whole world of flavors to explore!

What to Serve with One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Elevate your cozy meal experience with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of your soup.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this warm bread adds texture and is ideal for soaking up the creamy soup.
Garden Salad: A light and fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the soup while introducing a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a savory contrast and a nutritious boost, enhancing your meal’s healthful aspects.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks make for a delightful pairing, doubling down on that comforting bread aspect.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing balance to the creamy, hearty soup, adding a pop of flavor with each bite.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy and cheesy, these delightful biscuits echo the flavors of the soup and invite everyone to indulge just a little bit more!
Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit salad adds a refreshing element, cleansing the palate and making your meal feel complete.
Apple Crisp: As a dessert, warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream creates the perfect comforting ending to your cozy meal.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can measure out the dry ingredients (flour, macaroni, and seasonings) and keep them ready to go. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply heat the prepared ingredients in a large pot, whisk in the broth and milk, then stir in the macaroni and cheese. This method ensures your soup remains just as delicious while saving you valuable time in the kitchen!

Storage Tips for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool down completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, expect the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup to be thicker than when freshly made. Add a splash of broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the soup ahead of time. Just adjust the liquid when reheating since the macaroni will absorb more moisture. Enjoy the convenience of a warming meal on a busy night!

Expert Tips for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Avoid Thick Soup: To prevent your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup from becoming overly thick, remember to add more broth or milk when reheating.
Adjust Cooking Time: If using a different type of pasta, keep an eye on the cooking time. Adjust it accordingly so the macaroni stays perfectly al dente.
Cheese Quality Matters: Use high-quality cheddar cheese for a rich flavor profile. Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents, affecting melt quality.
Add Nutrients: Sneak in some diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition without compromising the comforting taste of the soup.
Make Ahead Tips: If preparing ahead of time, plan to add extra liquid when reheating, as the pasta will absorb moisture. Enjoy delicious leftovers!

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing onions, look for ones that are firm with no dark spots. Fresh garlic should feel plump and have tight skin. For the ground beef, choose lean varieties with bright red color and minimal odor.

How should I store the leftovers of my One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
For storage, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before sealing to lock in freshness and flavor.

Can I freeze One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Use a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator a day before you plan to eat it.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Very! To fix a thickened soup, simply add some beef broth or milk gradually while stirring over low heat. Start with a small amount, around ½ cup, until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely be cautious! This soup contains ingredients like garlic and onions that can be harmful to dogs and cats. If cooking for families with allergies, always double-check that no one has sensitivities to dairy, wheat, or other key ingredients.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?
If your macaroni is undercooked, it may need a few more minutes in the simmering broth. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup turns out bland, try adding more seasoning or cheese for an extra flavor boost. And remember, adjusting the consistency is perfectly normal, so don’t hesitate to add more liquid as it cooks!