Introduction
There’s something magical about one-pot meals—the way they fill your home with comforting aromas and bring everyone together around the table. This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup captures that feeling perfectly. It’s a hearty, family-friendly comfort food that combines everything you love about a cheeseburger and creamy macaroni in one cozy bowl.
Imagine a spoonful of rich, cheesy broth mingling with tender pasta, savory beef, and a touch of onion sweetness. It’s like your favorite burger and mac and cheese joined forces to create the ultimate weeknight dinner. Plus, since it’s all made in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze—leaving you more time to relax and enjoy.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or craving something simple and soul-warming, this easy dinner recipe will quickly become a household favorite. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy.
What You Need
Main Ingredients:
- Ground beef – 1 lb.
- Medium onion (diced) – 1
- Beef broth – 2 cups
- Elbow macaroni – 2 cups
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup
- Milk – 1 cup
- Salt and pepper – as needed
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Brown the Ground Beef and Onion – In a large pot, brown 1 lb. of ground beef with 1 diced onion over medium heat. Drain excess fat once cooked.
- Add Broth and Boil – Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Cook the Macaroni – Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make it Creamy – Lower heat, pour in 1 cup of milk, then stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar until melted.
- Season and Serve – Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cheese or parsley if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot = minimal cleanup!
- Family-friendly comfort food that’s filling and flavorful.
- Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
- Creamy, cheesy, and budget-conscious.
- Great for meal prep or cozy weekends.
Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
- Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking.
- For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder for a flavor boost.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in peas, carrots, or corn.
- Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Bacon Lovers: Top with crispy bacon bits.
Substitutions
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Use chicken broth if beef broth isn’t on hand.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
FAQs
- Can I freeze cheeseburger soup? Yes, cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- How can I make it thicker? Add more cheese or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Can I use plant-based meat? Absolutely—it works great!
- What kind of milk works best? Whole milk gives the richest flavor.
- Can I make it in a slow cooker? Brown beef first, then cook on low for 4–5 hours.
- How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate for up to 3 days in a sealed container.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, it scales beautifully for crowds.
- What sides pair well with this soup? Garlic bread or a green salad.
- Can I add tomatoes? Yes! Add diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Is it kid-friendly? 100%! Kids love the cheesy, burger-like flavor.
Health Benefits
This soup offers balanced nutrition with protein from beef, calcium from cheese and milk, and energy-rich carbs from macaroni. When made with lean meat and whole-grain pasta, it’s a satisfying, wholesome meal.
How to Serve
Serve hot in deep bowls, topped with extra cheese or fresh parsley. Pair with crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete dinner.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to the macaroni step; add milk and cheese before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture.
Conclusion
This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the definition of cozy comfort. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of that “home-cooked love” flavor—perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a little warmth in your bowl. With its quick prep and easy cleanup, it’s bound to become your next go-to family favorite.
