The One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines the hearty comfort of a cheeseburger with the creamy goodness of macaroni soup, creating a rich and flavorful dish perfect for any season. With savory ground beef, tender macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic herbs like thyme and oregano, this soup is a one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and convenient. It’s a wholesome, comforting meal ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Soup:

1 lb. ground beef
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried thyme
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup finely diced yellow onion
1 cup thinly sliced carrots
1 cup thinly sliced celery
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
4 tablespoons all-purpose 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, to taste
Freshly cracked pepper, to taste

For the Croutons:

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

For Garnish:

Finely sliced green onions
Additional shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Prepare the Croutons:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange diced sesame seed buns in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the pieces and bake for about 10 minutes, or until crispy. Set aside.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef, 1 teaspoon each of oregano and thyme, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper.
- Cook until browned, breaking apart with a spatula. Transfer the beef to a bowl and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Increase heat to medium-high and sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add minced garlic and the remaining oregano and thyme. Cook for 1 additional minute.
Thicken the Base:
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of chicken broth, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits.
Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the remaining chicken broth and add the uncooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to low. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is al dente.
Finish with Cream and Cheese:
- Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the white balsamic vinegar and return the cooked beef to the pot. Stir to combine and heat through.
Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy sesame seed croutons, sliced green onions, and additional shredded cheddar cheese. Serve warm.

Nutrients

(Approximate per serving, assuming 10 servings)

Calories: 380
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 820mg
Fiber: 2g
Vitamin A: 25% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 20% DV

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a flavorful fusion of two beloved comfort foods. Perfect for cozy evenings, this hearty meal is a delightful addition to your dinner rotation.

The Inspiration Behind One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

The concept of this soup stems from the desire to take the classic cheeseburger experience and transform it into a comforting, one-pot meal. By incorporating the essential elements of a cheeseburger—ground beef, cheddar cheese, and even sesame seed buns as croutons—this recipe brings the flavors you love into a warm and hearty soup.

The addition of macaroni takes the dish to the next level, providing a wholesome, filling base that pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy broth. It’s a nostalgic twist on traditional soup recipes, delivering all the indulgence of a cheeseburger in a bowl.

A Perfect Harmony of Flavors and Textures

What sets this dish apart is its ability to balance flavors and textures in every bite:

Savory and Meaty: The seasoned ground beef forms the heart of the dish, adding depth and a satisfying, hearty flavor.
Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese creates a luxurious, velvety broth.
Tender Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery add a subtle sweetness and a touch of crunch, enhancing the soup’s overall flavor profile.
Perfectly Al Dente Pasta: Elbow macaroni provides a soft, comforting texture that absorbs the flavors of the broth.
Crispy Sesame Croutons: Toasted sesame seed buns bring a delightful crunch and mimic the classic burger bun, tying the dish together.

This thoughtful combination of elements makes every spoonful a satisfying experience.

Why This Soup Is a Fantastic Choice

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a versatile recipe that checks all the boxes for a go-to comfort food:

One-Pot Simplicity: Everything is cooked in a single pot, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
Quick to Make: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, this soup can be ready in under an hour, perfect for busy evenings.
Family-Friendly: Its rich, cheesy flavor and familiar ingredients appeal to both kids and adults.
Great for Leftovers: The soup reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or enjoying over multiple days.
Customizable: The recipe can be tailored to fit different tastes or dietary preferences, making it adaptable for any table.

Health Benefits of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Although indulgent, this soup also offers a range of nutritional benefits when prepared with quality ingredients:

High in Protein: The ground beef and cheddar cheese provide a substantial amount of protein, which helps keep you feeling full and energized.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots and celery contribute vitamins A and C, while the cheese adds calcium for strong bones.
Customizable Fat Content: Using lean ground beef or substituting with turkey can reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Fiber Boost: Adding whole-grain macaroni or extra vegetables can increase the fiber content, supporting healthy digestion.

This makes the soup not only delicious but also a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Customizing the Recipe to Suit Your Preferences

One of the best things about this soup is its adaptability. Here are some ways to customize the recipe:

Protein Alternatives: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute for a leaner or vegetarian option.
Cheese Varieties: Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions: Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to add variety and nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
Lower Carb Option: Replace the macaroni with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

These variations make it easy to tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs.

Tips for Making the Perfect Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind:

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables, high-quality ground beef, and a good melting cheese like sharp cheddar for optimal flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add the macaroni toward the end of cooking and monitor closely to ensure it remains al dente.
Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings to achieve the perfect balance.
Prepare the Croutons Fresh: Toasting sesame seed buns adds a unique crunch and authenticity, so don’t skip this step.
Serve Immediately: The soup is best enjoyed fresh and hot, ensuring the croutons remain crisp and the cheese stays gooey.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty soup is versatile enough to be served on its own or paired with complementary sides:

Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
Pickles or Coleslaw: These classic burger accompaniments add a tangy, crunchy element to the meal.
Beverages: Pair the soup with a cold beer, a glass of iced tea, or even a creamy milkshake for a diner-inspired experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines comfort, flavor, and convenience in one delicious dish. It’s a meal that feels indulgent while being packed with wholesome ingredients, and its adaptability ensures it can be tailored to suit any occasion or preference. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly evening or looking for an easy crowd-pleaser, this recipe delivers.

Conclusion: The Comfort of a Cheeseburger in a Bowl

The One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and hearty textures. By blending the savory satisfaction of a cheeseburger with the creamy indulgence of macaroni soup, this dish offers the best of both worlds. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a staple for any home cook, while its rich, cheesy goodness ensures it’s a hit with family and friends.