One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Dive into the comfort of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, a hearty dish that combines all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the creamy goodness of macaroni. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal family meal.

With tender ground beef, flavorful broth, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a cozy bowl of deliciousness that everyone will love!

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup (No Velveeta!)

A warm, filling soup that brings together all the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy macaroni—all in a single pot! Quick, tasty, and ideal for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cups beef stock

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Sauté Ground Beef:

In a large pot, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is cooked through and the onion is tender. Remove any excess grease.

Incorporate Beef Stock:

Add the beef stock and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Prepare Macaroni:

Mix in the elbow macaroni, and simmer uncovered for about 7-8 minutes, or until the pasta is just al dente.

Stir in Cheese and Milk:

Reduce the heat to medium-low, and blend in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Season and Enjoy:

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve in bowls and enjoy!

Notes:

Meat Options: While ground beef is used, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For extra flavor, consider using a mix of meats or adding some diced bacon.

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is classic, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a blend of your favorites.

Broth Choice: For a richer flavor, use low-sodium beef broth. You can also substitute with chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.

Pasta Alternatives: Elbow macaroni works well, but you can use other pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or even whole grain or gluten-free varieties.

Vegetable Additions: Enhance the nutrition by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the broth.

Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the consistency if it thickens.

Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the cheese. After thawing, reheat and then stir in the cheese to maintain a creamy texture.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Just reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of meat used.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrition.

Sauté them along with the onions before adding the broth.

How can I thicken the soup if it’s too watery?

If the soup is too thin, you can stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water, or let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce and thicken the broth.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the cheese.

After thawing, reheat and stir in the cheese to maintain a creamy texture.

It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Do I need to drain the ground beef?

Yes, after browning the ground beef, drain any excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming greasy.

This helps keep the dish lighter and enhances the overall flavor.

How do I know when the macaroni is cooked?

Cook the macaroni for about 7-8 minutes until it’s just al dente.

It should still have a slight bite to it since it will continue to cook when you add the cheese and milk.

What type of pot is best for this recipe?

A large pot or Dutch oven works best, as it allows for even cooking and enough space for the ingredients to combine without spilling over.

Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked ground beef to save time.

Just add it along with the broth and proceed with the recipe from there.

You may need to adjust cooking times slightly.

What if my soup turns out too thick?

If the soup is too thick, simply add a bit more beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Stir well and let it heat through before serving.