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It was a chilly evening when I first concocted this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, and I vividly recall the way the warm, cheesy aroma enveloped my kitchen like a comforting hug. With a busy week ahead of me, I desperately sought something easy yet satisfying, and this recipe came to the rescue in under 30 minutes! The simple beauty of this soup lies in its hearty combination of ground beef, macaroni, and fresh vegetables, all simmered together to create a comforting dish without the need for any processed cheese.
This recipe not only satisfies those cravings for comfort food but also brings the family together around the dinner table, allowing for scrumptious variations that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're a busy parent, a home chef, or just someone tired of the same old takeout, this creamy, cheesy delight is your answer to weeknight dining. Join me as we dive into making this delicious One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, where real ingredients shine, and every bite feels a little bit like home.
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Why is One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup so popular?
Comforting flavors and simple preparation make this dish a family favorite. This one-pot wonder brings together the delightful taste of cheeseburgers with the heartiness of macaroni soup, all while keeping cleanup to a minimum! In just about 30 minutes, you can enjoy a creamy mix of ground beef, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights.
Plus, it offers unexpected versatility: you can easily transform it into a vegetarian option with plant-based meat or add extra toppings like crispy bacon for more flavor. So whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep for the week, this one-pot recipe delivers comfort that will keep everyone coming back for more!
One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Ingredients
• Short note: Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup that the whole family will love!
For the Soup
• Ground Beef – Use 80/20 organic grass-fed or substitute with plant-based meat, black beans, or ground turkey for a healthier twist.
• Dried Oregano – Provides subtle herby flavor that enhances the soup's taste.
• Dried Thyme – Complements the oregano with its earthy notes.
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor, making every spoonful more satisfying.
• Yellow Onion – Brings a savory base to the soup, deepening the flavor profile.
• Carrots – Adds flavor and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal.
• Celery – Creates a mirepoix base with the onion and carrots for added depth.
• Garlic – Introduces a delicious depth of flavor; you can substitute with garlic powder (½ tsp) if needed.
• Flour – Thickens the soup, creating a creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
• Chicken Broth – Provides the liquid base; veggie or beef broth can be used based on preference.
• Elbow Macaroni – The classic pasta base; feel free to use your favorite short cut of pasta, or even potatoes or cauliflower for a twist.
• Heavy Cream – Gives the soup its rich, silky texture; half and half can be swapped for a lighter option.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds cheesy flavor and creamy texture; remember to add it at the end, not while boiling!
• White Balsamic Vinegar – Offers a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
• Kosher Salt – Adjust to taste for the perfect seasoning.
• Fresh Cracked Pepper – Adds warmth and enhances overall flavor; adjust to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions for One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Brown the Ground Beef In a large Dutch oven, heat on medium-high and add the ground beef with dried oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This step adds rich flavor and depth to your soup, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with deliciousness.
- Sauté the Vegetables Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside. Add butter to the same pot, allowing it to melt over medium heat. Sauté the yellow onion, carrots, and celery for 10 minutes until the onions are translucent. This mirepoix base is crucial as it creates a flavorful foundation for your soup.
- Add Garlic and Herbs Stir in minced garlic, along with an additional sprinkle of oregano and thyme. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. This step infuses the soup with incredible aroma and flavor, setting the stage for your creamy concoction.
- Thicken the Soup Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well and cooking for 1 minute. This helps to form a roux that thickens the soup, creating that satisfying creamy texture everyone loves.
- Deglaze the Pot Pour a splash of chicken broth into the pot while scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step enhances the flavor by incorporating those delicious bits, ensuring no taste goes to waste.
- Add Broth and Noodles Pour in the remaining chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in elbow macaroni, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Stirring occasionally prevents sticking and ensures even cooking, making sure your pasta has the right bite.
- Stir in Dairy and Cheese Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Gently mix in heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Adding these ingredients off the heat prevents curdling and maintains that smooth texture, which is key for a luxurious soup.
- Finish the Soup Add white balsamic vinegar, and then return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Gently stir to combine, letting the flavors blend for 2-3 minutes while warming through. This step harmonizes the savory elements, balancing richness with a touch of tang that elevates the dish.
- Season to Taste Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper, if needed. This is your chance to make the soup just right for your palate. The right balance of seasoning transforms good soup into great soup!
- Serve and Enjoy Ladle the One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and enjoy with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon or fresh herbs. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the delightful textures makes every bite a comforting experience. Enjoy this cozy family meal with love!
Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Brown the Ground Beef
In a large Dutch oven, heat over medium-high and add the ground beef, sprinkling in dried oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it's nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This step adds rich flavor and depth to your soup, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with deliciousness. - Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside. Add butter to the same pot, allowing it to melt over medium heat. Sauté the yellow onion, carrots, and celery for 10 minutes until the onions are translucent. This mirepoix base is crucial as it creates a flavorful foundation for your soup, preparing it for the creamy goodness to come. - Add Garlic and Herbs
Stir in minced garlic along with an additional sprinkle of oregano and thyme. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. This step infuses the soup with incredible aroma and flavor, setting the stage for your creamy concoction, and it helps release the flavors locked in the garlic and herbs. - Thicken the Soup
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well and cooking for 1 minute. This helps to form a roux that thickens the soup, creating that satisfying creamy texture everyone loves. Ensure you cook the flour for a short time to remove its raw taste, which enhances the overall flavor. - Deglaze the Pot
Pour a splash of chicken broth into the pot while scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step enhances the flavor by incorporating those delicious bits, ensuring no taste goes to waste. The fond left behind from cooking the beef adds an extra layer of richness to your soup. - Add Broth and Noodles
Pour in the remaining chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in elbow macaroni, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This crucial step ensures your pasta has the right bite, blending perfectly with the creamy soup texture. - Stir in Dairy and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Gently mix in heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Adding these ingredients off the heat prevents curdling and maintains that smooth texture, which is key for a luxurious soup everyone will love. - Finish the Soup
Add white balsamic vinegar, and then return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Gently stir to combine, letting the flavors blend for 2-3 minutes while warming through. This harmony of savory elements balances richness with a touch of tang that elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is a comforting experience. - Season to Taste
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper, if needed. This is your opportunity to make the soup just right for your palate. The right balance of seasoning transforms good soup into great soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile. - Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and enjoy with your favorite toppings, such as crispy bacon or fresh herbs. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the delightful textures makes every bite a comforting experience. Serve this cozy family meal with love, bringing everyone together around the table!
Turn It Into A Party!
When it comes to entertaining, One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is an absolute winner! With its comforting, cheesy flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to delight your guests and satisfy their cravings. Serve it up with crunchy chips or crispy crackers for added texture and fun! 🎉 A few tips if serving for a crowd:
- Keep it Warm: Use a slow cooker setting on low to keep the soup warm throughout the party! (This is perfect for those who might arrive fashionably late. )
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the soup a day in advance and simply reheat it before serving! (Just cook the pasta separately and mix it in when ready to serve for the best consistency.)
- Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh twist that celebrates the season! (You can even give it a festive vibe with toppings like fresh herbs or spicy jalapeños!)
What to Serve with One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
Enhance your delightful soup experience with these comforting side dishes and treats that complement its creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, this crispy, buttery bread enhances the soup's flavors and adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh, zesty salad balances the richness of the soup, providing a splash of color and crunch. Toss in your favorite veggies and a light vinaigrette to brighten the meal.
- Honey Butter Cornbread: Moist and slightly sweet, this cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the soup, making it a winning combination that's hard to resist.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a lovely roasted flavor and extra nutrients. Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with the savory depth of the cheeseburger soup.
- Classic Coleslaw: The crisp and tangy bite of coleslaw contrasts perfectly with the creamy soup, adding layers of flavor and texture that delight the senses.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage like sweet iced tea or homemade lemonade cuts through the richness of the soup, making every spoonful feel even more satisfying.
Each of these side dishes will create a warm, inviting meal that ensures your family and guests feel completely at home, making your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup the star of the dinner table!
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Fridge: Store leftover One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Freezer: This soup freezes well! Divide into portion-sized containers and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the soup in a pot over low heat. Stir frequently, adding a little milk or broth if needed to return to its creamy consistency.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Substitutions
Can't find a few of these ingredients? No problem! They can easily be replaced with the suggestions below:
- Ground Beef: Replace it with plant-based meat or black beans (for a vegetarian option). You could also use ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
- Dried Oregano: Replace it with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning if you have it on hand. This will maintain the herby flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream: Replace it with ½ cup of half and half for a lighter consistency, or use 1 cup of whole milk for a thinner soup.
- White Balsamic Vinegar: Replace it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.
- Elbow Macaroni: Replace it with any short pasta, like fusilli or penne, or use 1 medium diced potato or cauliflower florets for a different twist.
One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for fresh produce. Look for yellow onions that are firm with no soft spots; carrots should be vibrant and crisp; and celery should be firm too. For ground beef, if sourcing local, choose organic and grass-fed if possible. The best ground beef has a bright red color. For the cheese, shredded sharp cheddar is ideal for melting, while the heavy cream should be fresh with no sour smell.
How should I store leftover One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
After enjoying your delicious soup, promptly cool it and transfer it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it can last for up to 3 days. When reheating, just add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture before warming gently either on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this delightful soup! First, allow it to cool completely, then divide it into portion-sized containers. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. When ready, warm it on low heat, stirring often and adding a little milk or broth if necessary to regain its rich creaminess.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
Very common! If your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is thicker than desired, simply add a bit of chicken broth or milk to thin it out. Start with ¼ cup, stirring well, and gradually add more until your preferred consistency is reached.
Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
Always a good question! This recipe contains dairy (butter, heavy cream, cheddar cheese) and gluten (due to the flour and macaroni). For those with allergies, I recommend substituting heavy cream with non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and using gluten-free pasta and flour. If you're cooking for pets, avoid giving them any soup with onions or garlic, as these are harmful to dogs and cats. Always tailor it to keep everyone safe!
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or canned black beans. To create a vegan version, use the same plant-based options, omit the dairy entirely, and instead use coconut milk or a nut-based cream. Plus, feel free to load it with your favorite veggies for added nutrition!
Irresistibly Easy One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
A cozy, comforting One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup made with ground beef, macaroni, and fresh vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: soup
- Method: stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: omnivorous
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 stalks celery
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, heat on medium-high and add the ground beef with dried oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Remove the browned beef from the pot and set aside. Add butter to the same pot, allowing it to melt over medium heat. Sauté the yellow onion, carrots, and celery for 10 minutes until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic, along with an additional sprinkle of oregano and thyme. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well and cooking for 1 minute.
- Pour a splash of chicken broth into the pot while scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom.
- Pour in the remaining chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in elbow macaroni, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Gently mix in heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Add white balsamic vinegar, and then return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Gently stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper, if needed.
- Ladle the One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup into bowls and enjoy with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Store leftover One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- This soup freezes well! Divide into portion-sized containers and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, place the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Avoid leaving the soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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