One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food in a Bowl
When it comes to hearty, soul-warming meals, few dishes can compete with the One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed soup combines the best of both worlds—the savory goodness of a classic cheeseburger and the cozy comfort of homemade mac and cheese—all cooked conveniently in one pot. Each spoonful delivers rich ground beef, tender macaroni, melted cheese, and a perfectly seasoned broth that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. It’s simple, filling, and full of flavor. And the best part? You’ll only have one pot to clean afterward! That makes it a go-to dish for anyone who wants maximum comfort with minimum fuss.
Ingredients and Their Roles
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean): The star of the dish, providing hearty, savory flavor and the “cheeseburger” element in this soup.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the beef’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of aromatic flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
- 3 cups beef broth: The flavorful base that makes the soup rich and savory.
- 2 cups milk: Creates a creamy texture and helps balance the bold, meaty flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious thickness and richness, turning the soup into pure comfort.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The pasta that transforms this dish into a hearty, one-pot meal.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Infuses the soup with that iconic cheeseburger tang and color.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami flavor and adds a subtle smoky note.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Enhances the cheeseburger flavor with a touch of tanginess.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing all the rich, savory flavors.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup for creamy, gooey cheesiness.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional): Adds stretchiness and extra richness.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Stirred in at the end for a silky, tangy finish.
- Green onions or parsley (for garnish): Adds color and freshness to the final presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Let them cook for about a minute to deepen the flavor. Then, pour in the beef broth, milk, and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the soup begins to thicken.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Creaminess
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the cheddar cheese (and mozzarella, if using) until melted and smooth. Then stir in the sour cream for that signature creamy finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot macaroni cheeseburger soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions or parsley. For a true cheeseburger experience, add toppings like crisp bacon bits, diced pickles, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a fan favorite for so many reasons:
- It’s a one-pot wonder—fewer dishes, less mess, and easy cleanup.
- It’s loaded with flavor, blending creamy cheese sauce, juicy beef, and hearty pasta into one irresistible dish.
- It’s customizable—you can easily add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- It’s kid-friendly—even picky eaters love it because it tastes like a cheeseburger in soup form!
- It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
Every bite is a balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that comfort the soul and satisfy the stomach.
Pro Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. It melts better and makes the soup extra creamy.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to absorb liquid after cooking.
- Adjust thickness to your liking: If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or milk before serving.
- Add a smoky twist by stirring in a handful of cooked, crumbled bacon.
- For extra cheesiness, top each bowl with an extra sprinkle of cheddar before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup with:
- Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping into the creamy soup.
- A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Crispy oven fries on the side for a fun cheeseburger-inspired twist.
- For drinks, pair with a cold root beer or a light lager for a nostalgic diner-style meal.
If you’re entertaining, set up a topping bar with bacon bits, diced tomatoes, scallions, shredded cheese, and pickles—just like a cheeseburger bar in soup form.
Conclusion
This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is everything you love about classic comfort food, all rolled into one creamy, satisfying dish. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal, yet easy enough to whip up any night of the week. With just one pot and simple ingredients, you can create a bowl of rich, cheesy, perfectly seasoned goodness that warms hearts and fills stomachs.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup delivers unbeatable flavor, convenience, and comfort. It’s creamy, cheesy, beefy, and absolutely irresistible—your new favorite comfort meal awaits.
Make it once, and it’ll become a forever staple in your kitchen.