One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
This one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup combines the rich, creamy flavors of a cheeseburger with the comforting warmth of a hearty soup.
It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights. Packed with fresh vegetables, tender beef, and creamy cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite—all without relying on processed ingredients like Velveeta!
Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening or need a quick yet satisfying dinner option, this recipe has you covered. The toasted sesame bun croutons provide a delightful crunch, complementing the creamy texture of the soup. Let’s dive into this delicious one-pot wonder!
Key Ingredients for Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Ground Beef and Fresh Vegetables
- Ground beef – The heart of the dish, adding a savory, meaty richness.
- Yellow onion, celery, and carrots – The aromatic base that enhances flavor and adds nutrition.
- Garlic – Infuses the soup with bold, fragrant notes.
Creamy, Cheesy Perfection
- Sharp cheddar cheese – The star ingredient, offering a creamy, tangy depth.
- Heavy cream – Provides luxurious richness and velvety texture.
Hearty Additions
- Elbow macaroni – Soaks up all the flavorful broth and creates a comforting texture.
- Chicken broth – A savory foundation that ties all the ingredients together.
Flavor Boosters
- White balsamic vinegar – Adds brightness and balance.
- Dried oregano and thyme – Enhance the savory notes with a touch of herbaceous warmth.
Croutons and Garnishes
- Sesame seed buns – Transformed into golden, crispy croutons for the perfect topping.
- Green onions and shredded cheddar cheese – For fresh flavor and a finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Magic: How to Make It
- Prepare the croutons. Toast sesame seed buns into crispy perfection for a delightful crunch.
- Brown the beef. Season and cook until rich and savory, then set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables. Caramelize onion, celery, and carrots to deepen their natural sweetness.
- Add garlic and herbs. Infuse the pot with fragrant, herby goodness.
- Build the base. Stir in chicken broth and uncooked pasta for a complete, hearty base.
- Finish with cream and cheese. Blend heavy cream, sharp cheddar, and a splash of balsamic for a luxurious finish.
- Assemble and serve. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with croutons, and garnish for a feast of flavors.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Soup
For an even creamier soup, blend a portion of the sautéed vegetables before adding the pasta. Adjust the consistency with more broth if needed. A pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor with a slight kick, while gluten-free pasta and flour substitutions ensure the dish accommodates dietary needs.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency. To maintain their crunch, store croutons separately in a sealed container at room temperature.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup and watch it become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire!
One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano divided
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme divided
- Kosher salt to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper to taste
For the Croutons:
- 4 sesame seed buns diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Prepare Croutons:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Arrange sesame seed bun cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Cook Ground Beef:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef along with 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Garlic and Herbs:
- Reduce heat to medium and stir in minced garlic, the remaining teaspoon of oregano, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Incorporate Flour:
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour a small amount of chicken broth into the pot to deglaze, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the remaining chicken broth and uncooked macaroni. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a simmer.
Cook Pasta:
- Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Finish the Soup:
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in heavy cream, shredded cheese, and white balsamic vinegar. Add the cooked ground beef back to the pot and return to medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle soup into bowls, top with crispy sesame seed bun croutons, and garnish with sliced green onions and shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.