Imagine a cozy evening where the aroma of sizzling beef, melted cheese, and savory spices fills your kitchen. That’s the magic of this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe. Combining the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese with the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger, this soup is designed to delight both kids and adults. It’s hearty, quick, and perfectly portioned for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for a crowd-pleaser, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort. Plus, it’s all done in one pot—meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Speedy preparation: From chopping onions to serving in under 45 minutes.
All-in-one pot: Less washing, more savoring.
Family-friendly: Pleasing flavors that even picky eaters love.
Customizable: Add veggies, swap cheeses, or make it spicy.
Budget-conscious: Affordable ingredients that don’t compromise taste.
Hearty & comforting: Perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping.
Rich, cheesy goodness: Every spoonful delivers creamy satisfaction.
Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and reheat without losing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients—each carefully chosen for flavor, texture, and balance.
Olive oil: Enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
1 lb ground beef: Provides the savory, hearty foundation.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brightens and layers the flavor.
1 tsp paprika: Introduces a mild smokiness.
1 tsp dried oregano: Balances richness with herbal notes.
Salt & black pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust to taste.
4 cups beef broth: Forms a savory base for the soup.
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice: Adds acidity and freshness.
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni: Absorbs the cheesy, meaty flavors.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Creamy, gooey cheeseburger essence.
1 cup milk (whole preferred): Smooths and enriches the texture.
½ cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess.
Chopped parsley or green onions (optional): For garnish and color.
Substitution tips:
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Swap cheddar with gouda, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for flavor twists.
Gluten-free pasta works perfectly without affecting taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef & Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the meat evenly.
Science tip: Browning the meat creates Maillard reactions, deepening the flavor and producing a rich, savory base.
2. Add Broth, Tomatoes & Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil. Add elbow macaroni, reducing heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender—usually 8–10 minutes.
Sensory cue: The pasta should be tender but not mushy, absorbing the flavors of the broth.
3. Melt in Cheese & Cream
Lower the heat. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese and milk until fully melted and incorporated. Remove from heat and fold in sour cream for velvety richness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad.
Serving tip: A dash of hot sauce or crispy bacon bits elevates the cheeseburger experience.
Pro Tips & Tricks
How do you prevent the soup from curdling when adding milk?
Always add milk gradually over low heat. Avoid boiling once dairy is introduced; high heat can separate the proteins, causing curdling.
Can I make this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How can I make this soup keto-friendly?
Replace elbow macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Use full-fat cheese and heavy cream instead of milk for richness.
Best Ways to Serve
Family dinner: Pair with garlic bread or simple green salad.
Potluck favorite: Keep warm in a slow cooker during gatherings.
Lunch meal prep: Portion into mason jars for grab-and-go meals.
Pairings: Crosslink to Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for full comfort meals.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving, 6 servings)
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 920mg
Tip: Adjust cheese and sour cream amounts for lower-fat versions.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for 2–3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Gently warm on stovetop or microwave, adding milk to loosen texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack adds unique flavors. Mix and match for depth.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Corn, bell peppers, or peas can boost nutrition without compromising flavor.
How spicy is this soup?
Mild by default. Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
Recipe Variations
Vegetarian: Replace beef with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
Slow-cooker version: Brown beef and onions, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 3–4 hours.
Regional twist: Add smoked sausage or bacon for Southern-style cheeseburger soup.
Cheesy overload: Top with extra shredded cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s a cozy hug in a bowl. Its creamy texture, savory beef, and melty cheese make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Reclaim your weeknight dinners and create unforgettable moments with a dish that’s as easy as it is comforting.