One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

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There’s something deeply comforting about the rich aroma of simmering soup filling the kitchen, especially when it involves cheese, pasta, and ground beef. This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup has quickly become one of my go-to meals when I want something hearty, cheesy, and totally satisfying without the hassle of using multiple pans. It brings together everything I love about a good cheeseburger and turns it into a cozy bowl of soup.

What I adore about this dish is that it checks every box: easy cleanup, simple ingredients, quick prep, and a flavor that everyone in my family gets excited about. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is surprisingly straightforward to throw together on a weeknight. The creamy broth, tender elbow macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and melted cheese make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

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Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This recipe is the epitome of comfort food, especially for cooler nights when you want something warming and cheesy. It’s:

• Made in just one pot (yes, really!)
• Incredibly family-friendly and kid-approved
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Easily adaptable to what you have on hand
• Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious

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What Kind of Macaroni Should I Use?

I always use classic elbow macaroni for this soup—it’s the perfect size and shape to soak up all that rich, cheesy broth. That said, you could easily swap in shells, ditalini, or even small rotini if that’s what you’ve got in the pantry. Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes may slightly affect the cooking time, so check for doneness as you go.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is how flexible it is. Here are a few ways you can switch things up:

• Ground Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic, but try mixing in mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even Velveeta for extra creaminess.
• Broth Base: Use beef broth for depth, but chicken or vegetable broth work in a pinch.
• Add Veggies: Diced carrots, corn, or bell peppers can add extra nutrition and texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap the cheese and cream with plant-based alternatives if you’re avoiding dairy.

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Ingredients for This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Ground beef: The heart of the soup—it gives that classic cheeseburger flavor. I prefer using 85/15 for just the right amount of richness without being too greasy.
• Elbow macaroni: Soaks up the creamy broth and gives this dish its comforting, hearty texture.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory meat.
• Garlic: Essential for building flavor—don’t skip it.
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Brings acidity, color, and a mild kick to the broth.
• Beef broth: Forms the base of the soup and enhances the meaty flavor.
• Tomato paste: Adds a deeper tomato note and thickens the soup.
• Cream cheese: Makes the soup incredibly smooth and rich.
• Heavy cream: For luxurious creaminess that ties all the flavors together.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup for gooey cheesiness. Sharp cheddar is especially flavorful.
• Salt and pepper: To season everything and bring it all together.
• Paprika or smoked paprika (optional): Adds a touch of warmth or smokiness if desired.
• Fresh parsley or chives: For garnish and a pop of freshness at the end.

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Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease, leaving a small amount for flavor.

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Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds the foundational flavor of the soup.

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Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies (with their juices), tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir everything together until the tomato paste is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

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Step 4: Simmer with Pasta

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to medium and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is creamy and incorporated.

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Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra cheese and fresh herbs, and serve hot.

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How Long to Prepare the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Prep Time: Most of the prep work involves chopping onion and garlic and measuring out ingredients. This should take about 10 minutes if you’re organized and have everything ready to go.

Cook Time: The actual cooking process is quick and efficient. Browning the beef, simmering the soup, and melting in the cheese takes around 25–30 minutes total. So you’re looking at a comforting homemade dinner in under 40 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Use freshly shredded cheese for best meltability—it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. Slightly undercooked is ideal since it continues to absorb liquid after cooking.
• Stir frequently after adding cheese to prevent it from sticking or clumping.
• Add cream cheese in small pieces to help it melt evenly into the broth.
• For extra flavor, toast the tomato paste for a minute or two before adding the broth.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the drain step: Not draining the beef can leave the soup too greasy.
• Adding pasta too early: The pasta can get mushy if it sits too long in the hot broth.
• Using low-fat dairy: This can cause the soup to curdle or separate. Stick with full-fat cream and cheese for a smoother finish.
• Boiling after adding cream: Always lower the heat before adding dairy to avoid separation.
• Not tasting as you go: Adjust seasoning at the end to make sure it’s just right.

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What to Serve With One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

1. Garlic Bread

Perfect for dipping and scooping up the cheesy broth.

2. Simple Green Salad

A light side with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup.

3. Pickles or Pickled Veggies

Adds a tangy contrast that mimics the classic burger pairing.

4. Roasted Broccoli

Brings a savory, slightly crispy veggie element to the meal.

5. Baked Potato Wedges

Stays on theme with burger-night vibes and adds extra comfort.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

Freezer: This soup can be frozen, though the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing. If freezing, consider undercooking the pasta a bit. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Note: Values are approximate and based on standard serving size of about 1.5 cups)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Cholesterol: 90mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully. Just store it in the fridge and gently reheat before serving.

How do I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onion.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth and cheese are GF-certified.

Will the soup thicken as it sits?

Yes, especially because of the pasta. You can loosen it with a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

Can I leave out the cream cheese?

You can, though it adds to the creamy texture. If skipping, consider using a bit more heavy cream or shredded cheese.

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Conclusion

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup brings together everything we love about comfort food in a single, satisfying bowl. With just one pot and under 40 minutes, you’ve got a creamy, cheesy, beefy dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or easy weeknight dinners. It’s rich, flavorful, endlessly customizable, and always a family favorite. Whether you’re serving a hungry crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this soup has you covered.

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