If you’re craving a meal that combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the cozy goodness of a warm bowl of soup, look no further than this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. It’s like your favorite burger transformed into a rich, cheesy soup loaded with tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and just the right balance of spices. This recipe is a total game changer when you want something hearty yet easy to whip up, perfect for busy nights or whenever you need a little hug in a bowl.

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup lies in its straightforward and accessible ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and comforting texture. Each element plays its part: from the savory ground beef to the creamy cheddar cheese, every bite feels satisfyingly indulgent yet perfectly balanced.

Olive oil: A splash to gently sauté aromatics and build the soup’s flavor base.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened just right.
Garlic: Brings a warm, aromatic punch without overpowering.
Ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this soup feel like a cheeseburger in a bowl.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient.
Smoked paprika: A subtle smoky note that elevates the beef’s natural richness.
Beef broth: The flavorful liquid that ties the ingredients together and keeps the soup tender.
Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that soaks up all the cheesy goodness beautifully.
Diced tomatoes: A hint of acidity and color, giving brightness to the creamy soup.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it’s the star that makes the soup irresistibly creamy.
Milk: Adds richness and smoothness for that perfect comforting mouthfeel.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a slight tang to round out the flavors.
Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, herbal touch to brighten the final dish.

How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. The secret to layering flavors starts here—soften the diced onion and minced garlic until they’re translucent and fragrant. This gentle sauté builds a savory foundation that sets the tone for the entire soup.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add your ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and cook until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. This step unlocks rich, meaty flavors and a satisfying texture that makes the soup feel like a true cheeseburger experience. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika over the browned beef, stirring well to combine. These simple seasonings enhance the beef’s natural flavor, while the paprika adds a subtle smoky hint that mimics a grilled burger’s charred allure.

Step 4: Add Broth, Macaroni, and Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth, then stir in the elbow macaroni and diced tomatoes. Bringing this mix to a boil before lowering to a simmer is key—allow the pasta to cook gently, soaking up the robust broth and melding with the beef’s flavors for about 10 to 12 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Creamy Ingredients

Once your macaroni is perfectly cooked, it’s time to introduce the creamy elements. Add milk, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup becomes luxuriously creamy and cheesy—a hallmark of any great One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup.

Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustments

Before serving, give the soup a taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a crack of pepper can take this dish from delicious to unforgettable. Then it’s ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed!

How to Serve One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Garnishes

Garnishing is your chance to add a fresh pop of color and texture. A sprinkle of chopped parsley brings herbal brightness, cutting through the richness while adding a lovely visual appeal. If you want to kick it up a notch, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes will add a subtle heat that perfectly complements the smoky paprika.

Side Dishes

This soup shines as a complete meal, but pairing it with a few crunchy sides can elevate your dinner. Think crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping into that cheesy broth, or a crisp side salad to add a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Even simple pickles on the side can bring a delightful tang that plays well with the cheeseburger flavor profile.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls to give an edible, buttery shell. Another idea is layering it in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch option that maintains all the deliciousness without losing any of its charm. Either way, the creamy, cheesy texture of this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup always looks and tastes fabulous.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup stores beautifully! Transfer any unused soup to an airtight container, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers just as delightful (if not better) than freshly made.

Freezing

If you want to make this soup ahead for busy nights, freezing is a great option. Let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the pasta might absorb some liquid and soften slightly upon thawing, but reheating with a splash of broth or milk will bring it back to tender perfection.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup feels too thick, simply add a little extra milk or broth until the desired creamy consistency is restored. Microwave reheating works well too—just cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic and works perfectly here, feel free to experiment with small pasta shapes like shells, ditalini, or even mini penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is tender.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a similar texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and your favorite cheese or dairy-free alternatives to keep it creamy and delicious.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Definitely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños during the seasoning step will give the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup a nice kick. Just adjust the heat level to your preference.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for that classic cheeseburger flavor, but you can also try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra creaminess and meltiness. Freshly shredded cheese always melts better than pre-shredded varieties.

Can I prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for a party?

Yes, this soup is fantastic for make-ahead meals. Prepare it a day before, refrigerate, and gently reheat before serving. It’s also great for potlucks since it stays warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish without losing its cheesy charm.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup has truly mastered the art of comforting, flavorful, and easy cooking. It brings together everything you love about a cheeseburger in a warm, cheesy, spoonable form that’s perfect for any night of the week. If you’re ready to cozy up with a bowl that feels like a hug from an old friend, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it.

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 23 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This hearty One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, comforting soup. Packed with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s an easy weeknight meal that comes together quickly in just one pot.

Instructions

Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Season the Meat: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika over the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to evenly combine the spices.
Add Broth, Pasta, and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth, then add the elbow macaroni and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender but not mushy.
Finish with Milk and Cheese: Stir in the milk, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese fully melts and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use full-fat cheddar cheese and whole milk.
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free elbow macaroni.
You can add diced bell peppers or carrots in step 1 for extra vegetables.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
If the soup thickens too much upon standing, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American