One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy recipe combines the rich flavors of a cheeseburger with the cozy warmth of a soup. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this soup is simple to prepare and offers a creamy texture without using processed cheese products. Your loved ones will ask for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup for you!
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and heavy cream creates a luscious soup that’s hard to resist.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love cheeseburgers, and this soup version makes it fun and easy for them to enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering the soup and combining all ingredients efficiently.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for crisping up the sesame seed bun croutons, adding a delightful crunch to your soup.
• Spatula: Useful for browning ground beef and stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For this delicious One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Protein and Dairy

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Vegetables

• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 5 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs and Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
• Kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper

Other Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• sliced green onion, for garnish
• shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Heat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place diced sesame seed bun cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
• Bake for 10 minutes or until crispy on the outside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• Heat a large pot over medium heat.
• Add ground beef along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Cook until browned while crumbling with a spatula. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same large pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, salt, and pepper.
• Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

• Reduce heat to medium; stir in minced garlic along with remaining oregano and thyme.
• Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup Base

• Sprinkle in flour while stirring well to coat vegetables.
• Cook for one more minute while continuously stirring.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pot

• Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot.
• Scrape all the flavorful bits off the bottom using your spatula.

Step 7: Combine Broth and Pasta

• Stir in the remaining chicken broth along with uncooked elbow macaroni.
• Season with another pinch of salt and pepper.
• Turn heat up to medium-high until it reaches a simmer.

Step 8: Simmer Until Al Dente

• Once simmering, reduce heat to low.
• Let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes or until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally.

Step 9: Finish with Cream and Cheese

• Remove soup from heat; stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted.

Step 10: Add Ground Beef Back In

• Mix in white balsamic vinegar followed by cooked ground beef.
• Heat gently over medium heat until everything is warmed through.

Step 11: Season Before Serving

• Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed with salt or pepper.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy!

• Ladle soup into bowls topped with crispy sesame seed bun croutons.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and additional shredded cheddar cheese before serving!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving this delicious soup with the right accompaniments enhances its flavors and makes it an even more delightful experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Green Onions – Adds a fresh, crunchy texture and a burst of flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkling extra cheese on top provides a creamy richness.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the soup’s richness perfectly.
• Crusty Baguette – Perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the flavors.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken Strips – For added protein, serve grilled chicken strips alongside or on top of the soup.
• Turkey Meatballs – These can be added directly to the soup for a fun twist.

How to Perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Perfecting your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some easy tips to ensure your soup turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; adjusting salt and pepper at different stages can make a big difference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – This prevents mushy noodles and ensures they hold their shape in the soup.
• Stir Frequently – Keeping an eye on the cooking process prevents ingredients from sticking to the pot.
• Experiment with Cheeses – Try different types of cheese for unique flavors—like gouda or pepper jack.
• Add Veggies – Incorporate more vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with these delicious side dishes. Each option complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad – A crisp salad with romaine lettuce and creamy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
2. Coleslaw – The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – These sweet and savory fries are perfect for dipping into your cheeseburger soup.
4. Vegetable Platter – Fresh cut veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers offer a healthy crunch.
5. Cornbread Muffins – Soft, slightly sweet cornbread muffins pair well with the savory notes of the soup.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone will love.
7. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
8. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with rice or quinoa for an additional layer of flavor alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes that can affect the outcome of their One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Seasoning – Not seasoning your ingredients well can lead to bland soup. Always add salt and pepper at various stages of cooking for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking the macaroni too long can turn it mushy. Aim for al dente pasta by following the simmering instructions closely.
• Not Deglazing – Failing to deglaze the pot after browning the beef means missing out on rich flavors stuck to the bottom. Use a splash of chicken broth to scrape up these tasty bits.
• Rushing Cream Addition – Adding cream too quickly can cause it to curdle. Stir it in slowly and ensure the soup isn’t boiling when you do.
• Ignoring Texture Variations – Not including croutons or garnishes can leave your soup one-dimensional. Top with sesame seed bun croutons for added crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through; add extra broth if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground beef, making it a leaner option.

How can I customize my One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the cheese type based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage guidelines above.

What sides go well with One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Consider serving with a fresh salad or crispy breadsticks to balance out the meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting dish that combines hearty flavors and creamy textures all in one pot. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences, making it a family favorite. Try it today and discover how easy and delicious homemade soup can be!