One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the combination of hearty, comforting flavors in this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. It takes everything you love about a cheeseburger and transforms it into a cozy, creamy soup that’s perfect for a quick family dinner. The best part? It’s all made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze! This delicious soup is filled with seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, cheddar cheese, and a blend of vegetables that add texture and depth to the dish.

Let’s dive into how to make this mouth-watering soup, step-by-step!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean beef)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 2 cups water
• 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Pickles for topping (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain it at this point.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the beef in the same pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

1. Pour in the beef broth, water, and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Stir to combine everything.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

1. Once the liquid is simmering, add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot.
2. Let the macaroni cook for about 8–10 minutes or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Cream

1. Lower the heat and stir in the ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to add that classic cheeseburger flavor.
2. Slowly pour in the milk or cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley for garnish if you like.
2. For an extra cheeseburger touch, you can add diced pickles or even crumbled bacon on top.
3. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast!

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serving Size: This recipe serves about 6–8 people, depending on portion size.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up, as the macaroni will absorb liquid over time.

Helpful Notes:

• Broth Substitution: If you don’t have beef broth on hand, you can use chicken or vegetable broth, but beef broth adds a deeper flavor.
• Macaroni Variations: Elbow macaroni works well, but you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini.
• Cheese Choices: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a bit of smoked gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Healthier Version: You can substitute ground turkey for the beef for a leaner option, and use milk instead of cream to cut down on the fat content.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs:

• Chef Gordon Ramsay’s Tip: Always brown your beef well for a deep, caramelized flavor. This step is crucial for creating a rich, savory base for your soup.
• Chef Ina Garten’s Tip: Add the cheese gradually and stir constantly to avoid clumps and ensure a velvety smooth texture. Using freshly shredded cheese (instead of pre-shredded) will give the best results.
• Chef Jamie Oliver’s Tip: Fresh herbs like parsley or even chives can brighten up the soup and provide a fresh contrast to the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance, but keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. When reheating, you may need to add extra broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Q2: Can I freeze this soup?
While you can freeze it, the pasta may become mushy when thawed. For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta, and add cooked pasta when reheating.

Q3: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular macaroni for a gluten-free pasta variety. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like the broth and Worcestershire sauce, are also gluten-free.

Q4: What type of ground meat can I use besides beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.

Q5: How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper, a splash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños during the cooking process.

Q6: Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! You can try a blend of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or even a bit of blue cheese for extra flavor.

Q7: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If the soup is too thin, you can let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Another option is to mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the soup to thicken it up.

Q8: How can I make the soup creamier without using too much cheese or cream?
For a lighter yet creamy texture, try adding a few tablespoons of cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream. You can also use a bit of evaporated milk.

Q9: Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Feel free to toss in additional veggies like bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Q10: What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh green salad. For a fun twist, you can serve it in bread bowls!

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This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only comforting and delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. It’s a fun twist on a classic burger that will be a hit with the whole family! With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.