If you love the comfort of cheeseburgers and the warmth of a bowl of soup, you’re going to adore this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for chilly nights or whenever you’re craving a comforting meal. With seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese base, this soup combines everything you love about a cheeseburger in a single pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with their juice
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional for a classic burger flavor)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for sautéing
- Optional toppings: diced pickles, green onions, crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of more cheese
Instructions: How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes
Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, ketchup, and mustard if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook the Macaroni
Add the uncooked macaroni to the pot and stir well. Cover and let simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Be sure to check occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Make it Creamy
Once the macaroni is cooked, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the milk or heavy cream. Stir until combined and heated through.
6. Add the Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional garnishes like diced pickles for a classic burger taste, green onions, crumbled bacon, or extra cheese. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Perfect One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties for a smoother, creamier melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
- Customizable Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, add Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce.
- Prevent Overcooking Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until tender to avoid a mushy texture. The pasta will continue to absorb some liquid as it sits.
- Thickening: If the soup seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken, or add a bit of a cornstarch slurry.
- Make it Healthier: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, use low-fat milk, and reduce the cheese for a lighter version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on cheese and milk choices)
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this soup in advance, but be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the liquid as it sits. When reheating, you may need to add more broth or milk to bring it back to your desired consistency.
2. Can I freeze Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
This soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, cool the soup completely, transfer it to airtight containers, and store for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stove with added liquid if needed.
3. Can I substitute the pasta?
Yes! You can swap out elbow macaroni for other pasta shapes such as small shells, rotini, or ditalini. Choose a pasta that holds up well in soups.
4. What toppings work well for this soup?
Classic cheeseburger toppings like diced pickles, crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, or even a dollop of mustard or ketchup can elevate the flavors.
5. Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
6. How do I prevent the cheese from becoming grainy?
Remove the pot from heat before adding the cheese, and stir it in gradually. This prevents it from clumping or becoming grainy due to high heat.
Conclusion
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect blend of cozy and satisfying flavors, bringing all the fun of a cheeseburger into a warm, hearty bowl. With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and kid-friendly appeal, this recipe makes for a great weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch. So, grab your pot and let this cheeseburger-inspired soup become a new favorite in your home. It’s the ultimate comfort food that leaves everyone coming back for seconds!
