One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a warm and creamy soup. With tender macaroni, ground beef, and a rich cheesy broth, this one-pot meal is perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something filling without the hassle of too many dishes. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cook’s Notes and Tips
• Variations
• Serving Suggestions
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Beef and Onion: Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the pot. Cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Soup Base

4. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually add the beef broth while stirring, followed by the diced tomatoes (with their juices), Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

6. Add Macaroni: Stir in the uncooked macaroni pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese

7. Add Cheese and Milk: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the milk or half-and-half. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped pickles and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!

Cook’s Notes and Tips

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to minimize the amount of excess grease. If using higher-fat ground beef, be sure to drain the fat after browning.
• Cheese: For the best melting results, use freshly grated cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• Broth: You can add more broth if you prefer a thinner soup consistency.

Variations

• Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the soup for a bacon cheeseburger twist.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, corn, or even chopped spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicier version of this soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy broth.
• Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
• Toppings: Offer extra toppings like shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or diced tomatoes for everyone to customize their bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit more broth or milk if needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I Freeze Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup, but note that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What Type of Cheese Works Best?

Sharp cheddar cheese works best for a bold flavor, but you can also use a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for added creaminess.

How Do I Prevent the Pasta from Becoming Too Soft?

If you plan to make the soup ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to the soup just before serving. This will prevent the pasta from becoming too soft as it sits.

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of a cheeseburger and macaroni in one warm, hearty bowl. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for a cozy night in. With just one pot, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor, this soup is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Gather your ingredients, get cozy, and enjoy a delicious bowl of this comforting soup!

Happy Cooking!