Get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger combined with a rich, cheesy soup. This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a satisfying weeknight dinner that brings together the essence of a classic burger in a warm, creamy bowl of deliciousness. It’s loaded with juicy ground beef, tender macaroni, and gooey cheddar cheese, all cooked in one pot—making it a quick and easy dish perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups beef broth
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings: Diced pickles, ketchup, mustard, or other favorite burger toppings
Directions:
Brown the Beef & Sauté the Onion: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. When the beef is about halfway browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the onion is translucent and the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Pasta: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the elbow macaroni and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Stir in the Cheese: Once the macaroni is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with your favorite burger-inspired toppings such as diced pickles, ketchup, or a swirl of mustard. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!
Helpful Tips:
Pasta Cooking Tip: For perfectly cooked macaroni, check the pasta a few minutes before the end of the suggested cooking time. You want it to be al dente so it holds up well in the soup.
Cheese Choice: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense cheesy flavor or try a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Colby.
Broth Swap: If you’re out of beef broth, substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a slightly lighter flavor.
Add Veggies: Want to boost the nutrition? Add finely chopped carrots, celery, or even bell peppers to the ground beef mixture while it’s browning.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Storage & Reheating Tips:
To Store: Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To Freeze: Let the soup cool completely, then place in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Reheat refrigerated soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to thin it out. For frozen soup, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Try adding diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
What’s the best type of beef to use?
Use 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. For a leaner option, choose 90/10 ground beef.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the soup as directed, but stop before adding the cheese. When ready to serve, reheat and then stir in the cheese.
Will the pasta get mushy if I store it?
It can soften over time. To avoid this, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef, onions, and garlic first, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add the tomatoes, broth, and pasta. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Use 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes, but you may need to add a bit more broth to compensate for the reduced liquid.
What kind of cheese works best?
Besides cheddar, try smoked gouda, pepper jack, or American cheese for a creamier texture.
Can I add potatoes to the soup?
Yes, add diced potatoes when you add the pasta for an extra hearty twist.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and cheese are gluten-free.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and check that your broth is dairy-free.
What are some fun toppings?
Besides pickles, ketchup, and mustard, try crispy fried onions, crushed tortilla chips, or even bacon crumbles.
Can I add a roux to thicken the soup?
Yes, make a quick roux with 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons flour, then add to the soup before adding cheese.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
Use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water in a pinch.
Can I use leftover burgers?
Yes, chop up cooked burger patties and use them in place of ground beef.
Can I make it creamy?
Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the cheese for a creamier soup.
What herbs can I add?
Try adding thyme, oregano, or parsley for extra flavor.
What if I want more flavor?
Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of tomato paste to deepen the flavor.
Can I turn this into a cheeseburger chili?
Sure! Add kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin for a cheeseburger-inspired chili twist.
Secrets for Culinary Perfection:
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Always use freshly grated cheese for better melting and a creamier texture.
Add the Cheese Slowly: Stir the cheese in slowly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy soup.
Simmer, Don’t Boil: When cooking the pasta, keep the soup at a gentle simmer to prevent overcooking.
Let It Rest: Let the soup rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
Season as You Go: Taste and adjust seasonings at every stage for maximum flavor.
Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A spoonful of sour cream can add extra creaminess and tang.
Don’t Skip the Onion: The onion adds depth and sweetness, balancing the hearty beef flavor.
Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping.
Go for the Good Stuff: Use a rich beef broth for the best flavor base.
Cheese on Top: Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top of each bowl for a perfect finish.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy soup—perfect for any cheeseburger lover
