Name: One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Hey y’all! If you adore the flavor combo of a cheeseburger and crave the cozy comfort of a warm bowl of soup, then this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is calling your name. It’s cheesy, hearty, and comes together in just one pot—which means fast cleanup and less fuss. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day crowd-pleaser, or simply a bowl of pure comfort after a long day, this soup fits the bill. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This

Quick & Easy: Ready in just about 40 minutes with simple ingredients.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup thanks to the magic of one-pot cooking.
Hearty & Satisfying: Loaded with ground beef, veggies, tender macaroni, and gooey cheese.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults love the familiar, classic flavors.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day—if there’s any left!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
1 small celery stalk, diced
1 (14.5 oz/410g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups (950ml) low-sodium beef broth
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3/4 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups (200g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups (225g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
Chopped parsley or green onion, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in the onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Stir in garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, milk, Worcestershire sauce, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook the Macaroni

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then add the uncooked elbow macaroni.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until macaroni is just tender.

Step 4: Make It Cheesy

Turn the heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra cheddar and parsley or green onion if desired, and enjoy while piping hot!

Notes

For extra richness, use half-and-half instead of milk.
Stir the soup occasionally while simmering to prevent macaroni from sticking.
Add a splash of hot sauce or pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Variations

Turkey Version: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option.
Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Stir in cooked, chopped bacon with the cheese for smoky flavor.
Veggie-Loaded: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak in extra veggies.

Required Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot (at least 6-quart capacity)
Cutting board and chef’s knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle for serving

Storage Instructions

Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen if needed.
Not recommended for freezing, as the pasta may become mushy.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with crusty garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or classic pickles for a true cheeseburger vibe.
Top with extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, or diced pickles for fun garnish.
Pair with a light, fruity iced tea or a classic cola for the ultimate comfort meal.

Pro Tips

Shred your own cheese for the smoothest, creamiest melt—pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well.
Don’t overcook the macaroni; al dente is best for texture, especially if storing leftovers.
Let the soup sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend and thicken slightly.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?: Yes! Any short pasta like small shells or rotini works great, just adjust cooking time as needed.
Is this soup spicy?: No, it’s family-friendly and mild, but feel free to add hot sauce if you like more kick!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?: Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep—just store in the fridge and reheat, adding a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.

Prep time:

10 minutes

Cook time:

30 minutes

Total time:

40 minutes

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Why You’ll Love This

Ingredients