One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul and brings the family together, you’ve come to the right place! This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful blend of hearty flavors and cheesy goodness, all cooked in just one pot. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping things delicious!

I love this recipe because it’s so versatile and can be enjoyed by everyone – kids, adults, and even picky eaters! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just craving a bowl of comfort on a chilly evening, this soup will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• One Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of creamy cheese and savory beef creates an irresistible bowl of warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this comforting soup. You probably have many of these items in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the 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
• Fresh cracked pepper

For the Croutons

• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Garnish

• Sliced green onion
• Shredded cheddar cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey or even plant-based meat for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a kick!
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

First things first – let’s make those crunchy croutons! Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Spread the diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Bake them for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside. These will add delightful texture to your soup!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef along with 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s browned and crumbled well—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside; we’ll add it back later!

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Now, in that same pot (no need to clean it!), melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in your diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook everything for about 10 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally. This step really builds up the base flavor!

Step 4: Add Garlic & Herbs

Once your veggies are nice and soft, reduce the heat slightly and toss in those fragrant minced garlic cloves along with the remaining oregano and thyme. Cook this mixture for another minute – trust me; you’ll love how good your kitchen smells right now!

Step 5: Thicken It Up

Sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of flour and stir well to coat all those beautiful veggies. Let this cook for about one more minute while stirring frequently; this helps thicken our soup later on.

Step 6: Deglaze & Simmer

Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot—you want all those yummy bits stuck at the bottom! Then add the rest of your chicken broth along with uncooked macaroni noodles and season again with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low again and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 8: Creamy Goodness

Remove your pot from heat and stir in that luscious heavy cream along with shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy! Then add that splash of white balsamic vinegar you saved earlier—it adds such great depth.

Step 9: Combine & Serve

Finally, return that cooked ground beef back into the pot. Heat everything through over medium heat for just a couple more minutes—season once more if needed before serving!

Top each bowl with homemade croutons, sliced green onions, and extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired—enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Creating the perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Brown the Beef Well: Ensure you thoroughly brown the ground beef, as this adds depth and richness to your soup. The caramelization enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery not only contribute better taste but also add vibrant color to your dish. Fresh ingredients make your soup feel more wholesome.

• Adjust Cheese to Taste: Feel free to use more or less cheese according to your preference. Adding a bit more sharp cheddar can give it an extra cheesiness that many love!

• Simmer Gently: When adding the macaroni, keep the heat on low once it reaches a simmer. This prevents overcooking the pasta and ensures it remains al dente, which adds texture to your soup.

• Customize with Add-ins: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and flavor. This way, you can tailor the soup to fit your family’s taste preferences.

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Serving this comforting soup is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top not only looks appealing but also brings a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the soup.

• Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado chunks complement the cheesy flavors beautifully while adding an extra layer of nutrition.

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile and provide a delightful kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes for perfect dipping companions and enhances the overall comfort food experience.

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cheeseburger soup.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element while its bright green color creates an inviting plate presentation.

• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors in the soup. Plus, they are perfect for soaking up every last drop!

Now you’re all set to whip up this delightful One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup! Enjoy each comforting bowlful with family and friends. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only a comforting meal; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
• You may need to add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened after storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup!

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup without ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian version.

How do I store leftovers of One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

What can I serve with One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. You could also serve it with more croutons on top for extra crunch!

Can I customize my One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or corn. You can also spice it up with jalapeños for a kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you and your family love this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup as much as I do! It’s simple yet satisfying, perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and delicious. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Happy cooking!