Creamy, hearty, and packed with classic cheeseburger flavor
Description
This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup takes everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger and turns it into a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. It’s rich, cheesy, loaded with tender pasta and vegetables, and comes together in one pot—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One pot = easy cleanup
Comforting, creamy, and filling
Kid-friendly and family-approved
Perfect balance of beefy, cheesy, and savory flavors
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Cheese
1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings
Chopped green onions
Extra shredded cheese
Crumbled bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Drain excess fat if needed to avoid a greasy soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot with the beef.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the beef broth.
Add diced tomatoes with their juice, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stir well to combine all flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Lower the heat.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gradually until fully melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Top with green onions, extra cheese, or crumbled bacon if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Variations
Extra creamy: Stir in ½ cup milk or cream with the cheese
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños
Bacon cheeseburger style: Cook bacon first, use the drippings for the beef, then crumble bacon on top
Veggie boost: Add corn or peas for extra texture
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast
Pair with a simple green salad
Great as a standalone meal for lunch or dinner
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the soup if it thickens.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, small shells or ditalini work well. Avoid large pasta shapes.
Will the soup thicken over time?
Yes, the pasta absorbs liquid as it sits. Add broth when reheating.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, slightly undercook the pasta if making in advance.
Conclusion
This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food—simple, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s everything you love about a cheeseburger, served warm by the spoonful. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner rotation.