4-Ingredient One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

The Zestiest One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe Ever

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mouthwatering one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup that combines classic burger flavors in a creamy, hearty dish.

Packed with ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese, this recipe delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

The magic happens when juicy hamburger meat blends seamlessly with elbow macaroni and rich, velvety cheese sauce.

Every spoonful promises a delightful burst of familiar cheeseburger taste without the hassle of grilling.

Weeknight dinners just got an upgrade with this simple yet incredibly delicious meal.

No need for multiple pots or complicated techniques, this soup brings all the beloved cheeseburger elements into one convenient, comforting bowl.

Warm up your evening and treat yourself to a meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Pair This Soup With Tasty Sides

  • Elevate Cheesy Comfort: Perfectly Paired Companions
  • Crisp Green Salad: Toss a light, tangy side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the soup's richness.
  • Craft Beer Companion: Select a hoppy IPA or amber ale to complement the beef and cheese, creating a bold flavor contrast that enhances the meal's heartiness.
  • Garlic Bread Sidekick: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread with a crispy exterior and soft center to soak up the creamy soup and add extra texture.
  • Pickled Veggie Accent: Add a small side of quick-pickled cucumbers or onions to bring a bright, acidic note that balances the soup's creamy, meaty profile.

How to Store One-Pot Cheeseburger Soup

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Avoid freezing dairy-based soups for best texture.
  • Warm soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creamy consistency and prevent scorching.
  • Heat in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Check temperature and add extra liquid if needed to maintain smooth texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.

  • Is this soup kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The combination of pasta, cheese, and beef makes this soup a hit with children who love classic cheeseburger flavors.

  • How can I make the soup more protein-rich?

Consider adding extra protein by stirring in some cooked bacon bits or topping the soup with diced ham before serving.

  • Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can make the soup and reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore its creamy consistency.

Why Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Hits the Spot

  • Savor the Simplicity: No complicated baking steps required, making this dessert perfect for novice cooks or anyone wanting a stress-free treat.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Classic Oreo cookies combined with chocolate pudding guarantee a universally loved dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
  • Minimal Ingredient Magic: Using just a few common pantry staples, this recipe transforms basic ingredients into a decadent, impressive-looking pie that seems much more complicated than it is.
  • Chill and Serve Convenience: Prepare the dessert ahead of time and let it set in the refrigerator, making it an ideal make-ahead option for gatherings, potlucks, or spontaneous sweet cravings.

Ingredients for One-Pot Cheeseburger Soup

Protein Base:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty meat that provides rich flavor and substantial texture to the soup.
  • Onion: Adds a savory and aromatic base to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Pasta and Liquid Components:
  • Elbow Macaroni: A classic pasta shape that creates a comforting and filling soup base.
  • Beef Broth: Provides a deep, meaty liquid foundation that supports the soup's flavor profile.
  • Milk: Contributes to the creamy and smooth consistency of the soup.
Seasoning and Cheese:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melts perfectly to create a rich, creamy texture and adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the overall taste of the soup.

Making One-Pot Cheeseburger Soup Easily

Step 1: Sizzle The Beef And Onions

Start by heating a large pot over medium flame. Toss in ground beef and diced onions, breaking up the meat as it cooks.

Let everything sizzle and brown beautifully, creating those delicious caramelized flavors. Once the beef looks perfectly cooked, drain away any extra grease.

Step 2: Pour In The Liquid Gold

Add beef broth to the pot, stirring and scraping up all those yummy browned bits from the bottom. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil, letting the flavors start to mingle and dance.

Step 3: Cook The Pasta

Sprinkle in the elbow macaroni and let it simmer away. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Wait until the pasta becomes tender and soft, soaking up all the delicious broth.

Step 4: Create The Creamy Magic

Lower the heat and transform your soup into a luxurious creation.

Add these ingredients:
  • Milk
  • Shredded cheddar cheese

Stir gently until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and velvety texture that hugs each pasta piece.

Step 5: Final Flavor Boost

Sprinkle in salt and pepper to your liking.

Give everything a final gentle stir. Ladle into bowls and get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Handy Notes for Cheeseburger Soup Cooks

  • Choose ground beef with lower fat content to reduce greasiness and create a healthier soup without sacrificing rich flavor.
  • Grate cheese freshly and add gradually while stirring constantly to ensure smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
  • Watch macaroni carefully during cooking to avoid overcooking; remove from heat when pasta is al dente for perfect soup consistency.
  • Enhance soup with optional additions like Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or a dash of smoked paprika for more complex taste profile.
  • Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk and use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version that maintains creamy richness.

Ways to Change Up This Cheeseburger Soup

  • Vegetarian Cheeseburger Soup: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a meat-free version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Spicy Southwest Variation: Add diced green chilies, a dash of cayenne pepper, and top with sliced jalapeños. Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to boost heat and flavor.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace macaroni with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use heavy cream instead of milk and add extra cheese for a rich, keto-friendly soup.
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4-Ingredient One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

4-Ingredient One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe


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4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty macaroni cheeseburger soup blends classic comfort food flavors in one delightful pot. Quick and satisfying, this simple recipe delivers a creamy, meaty meal that brings joy to your dinner table with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) ground beef

Dairy:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Liquid:

  • 2 cups (473 milliliters) beef broth

Instructions

  1. Heat a large pot over medium temperature and sauté ground beef with onions until meat browns completely, approximately 6-7 minutes.
  2. Eliminate excess grease from the meat by carefully draining the fat.
  3. Pour beef broth into the pot and rapidly increase heat to achieve a rolling boil.
  4. Add elbow macaroni and simmer for 7-9 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta reaches al dente consistency.
  5. Reduce cooking temperature to low and gently incorporate milk and shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. Continuously stir the mixture until cheese melts smoothly, creating a velvety, rich texture.
  7. Enhance flavor profile by seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to personal preference.
  8. Ladle the steaming soup into serving bowls and present immediately while maintaining optimal warmth and creaminess.

Notes

  • Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier soup base.
  • For a vegetarian twist, swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils to maintain protein content.
  • Consider using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version without compromising flavor.
  • Enhance soup’s depth by adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika for extra complexity.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 470 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 630 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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