The Ultimate Comfort Food in a Single Pot
When you crave a meal that’s both comforting and filling, look no further than One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This decadent dish combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory richness of a cheeseburger, all in one easy-to-make soup. Imagine a hearty, beefy base, loads of cheese, and macaroni pasta swirled together into a satisfying, one-pot meal. Perfect for cold weather, family dinners, or any time you want something hearty and indulgent without all the fuss of multiple pots and pans.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Cheeseburger Soup
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Quick and easy: All made in one pot with minimal prep.
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Rich and cheesy: A perfect balance of creamy cheese and savory beef.
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Hearty and filling: Ideal for satisfying even the biggest appetites.
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Kid-friendly: A guaranteed hit for picky eaters.
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Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and store for later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
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1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean)
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
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2 cups elbow macaroni pasta (uncooked)
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
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1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
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2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (for an extra tang)
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter for richer flavor)
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Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, chopped pickles, fresh parsley
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary, then stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
To the same pot, add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and mustard. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes. Next, add the uncooked macaroni pasta and stir again. Cover and let it cook for about 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Cheeseburger Base
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream and cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring continuously until the cheese has completely melted and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, then garnish with any optional toppings such as crumbled bacon, chopped pickles, or fresh parsley for extra flavor and crunch.
Optional Variations
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Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, throw in some carrots, celery, or spinach while cooking the beef.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or stir in a few dashes of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
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Different Cheeses: Switch up the cheese for a cheddar and mozzarella blend for extra gooeyness.
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Make It Low-Carb: Substitute the macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: This soup freezes well—let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little more broth or cream if needed.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect comfort food that combines the best of both worlds: the richness of a cheeseburger and the creamy indulgence of macaroni and cheese. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it a great meal for family dinners, busy nights, or cozy weekends. With just one pot and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a hearty, cheesy, and beefy soup that will have everyone coming back for more.
