One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that brings everyone together, you’ve found it! This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, everything cooks in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

What makes this recipe special is how it combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with the comfort of macaroni soup. It’s an easy way to enjoy a classic favorite without any fuss. Trust me; your whole family will love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip up this hearty dish in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious blend of flavors.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less time cleaning up means more time enjoying your meal!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying – it’s the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these essentials for your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt to taste
• fresh cracked pepper to taste
• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Sliced green onion, for garnish
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you like a little kick in your soup.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This step is essential because crispy croutons add a delightful crunch to your soup! Spread diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, toss well, and bake for about 10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef along with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Browning the beef is crucial as it adds depth of flavor to the entire soup. Cook until it’s fully browned—about six to eight minutes—and then remove it from the pot so we can use that flavorful base next.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Now it’s time to build flavor! In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat (no need to clean it out). Add diced onion, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally for about ten minutes until everything is tender—this step really brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

Reduce heat slightly before adding minced garlic along with remaining oregano and thyme. Cooking these for just another minute allows those fragrant aromas to bloom!

Step 5: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over those lovely veggies and stir well. This roux will thicken our soup beautifully! Cook this mixture for another minute while stirring continuously.

Step 6: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot; scrape up any tasty bits stuck on the bottom—those are packed with flavor! Now stir in the rest of the chicken broth along with elbow macaroni and bring everything to a simmer.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Lower heat after it starts bubbling away—let’s simmer gently for about five to seven minutes until pasta is al dente. Give it an occasional stir so nothing sticks!

Step 8: Finish It Off

Take the pot off heat then mix in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and white balsamic vinegar. Finally, return that cooked ground beef back into our delicious concoction! Heat through on low until everything’s warmed nicely.

Step 9: Serve Up!

Ladle your comforting soup into bowls topped with croutons, green onions, and even more shredded cheddar if you’re feeling indulgent! Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy goodness!

And there you have it—a delightful One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup ready to be shared around your table!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Making this delicious soup is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors and nutritional value to your soup.

• Don’t rush the browning process: Allow the ground beef to brown properly; this adds depth of flavor and ensures your soup will taste rich and savory.

• Stir frequently while cooking pasta: This prevents the elbow macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pot, ensuring a perfectly cooked texture throughout.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving this comforting soup can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Here are some ideas for making it truly special!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of herbs adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens up your bowl.
• Croutons: The sesame seed bun croutons not only add crunch but also enhance the cheeseburger theme beautifully.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a slight tang that complements the cheese perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the soup.
• Steamed Broccoli or Cauliflower: These veggies provide a nutritious side that adds both color and crunch without overpowering the main dish.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can complement your cheeseburger soup nicely, providing an extra layer of comfort food goodness.

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is sure to become a family favorite. With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing, freezing, and reheating your delicious soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The soup will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, keep the croutons separate until ready to serve to maintain their crunchiness.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, consider using vacuum-sealed bags or tightly sealed containers.

Reheating

• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• If the soup thickens in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with this delicious recipe!

Can I substitute ground beef in One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes.

How can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free elbow macaroni.

Can I add vegetables to One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.

Can I use low-fat cheese in this recipe?

Yes! You can use low-fat cheese if you prefer a lighter version. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the creaminess of the final dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this cozy One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup as much as I do! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for busy weekdays, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!

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