This hearty One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup delivers all the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a rich, creamy soup form. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, tangy tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s an easy, satisfying meal made in a single pot—perfect for busy weeknights. Garnish with fresh herbs or pickle slices for that extra burger-inspired flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Meal = Easy Clean-Up
Cheeseburger Flavor in Soup Form
Customizable with Pickles,, or Spices
Kid-Approved and Family-Friendly
Ready in Under 40 Minutes

Ingredients Breakdown:

1 lb ground beef – Adds rich, savory flavor and protein to the soup, mimicking a classic burger base.
1 small onion, diced – Provides aromatic sweetness and depth to the broth.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of pungency.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the beef and vegetables for added richness.
4 cups beef broth – Forms the flavorful base of the soup, tying together all the burger elements.
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained – Adds a tangy balance and a hint of acidity.
1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked) – Offers heartiness and a satisfying bite, soaking up all the savory flavors.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the soup for a creamy, cheesy finish reminiscent of melted burger cheese.
1 cup whole milk – Combines with the cheese to create a smooth, creamy texture.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional) – Used to thicken the soup for a richer consistency, if desired.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional) – Adds a fresh, bright finish to the dish.
Pickle slices, for garnish (optional) – A playful nod to classic cheeseburgers, adding crunch and tang.

Tips and Tricks

For Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Make It a Cheeseburger Deluxe: Top with cooked bits, diced pickles, or even a drizzle of mustard.
For Thicker Soup: Use more flour slurry or reduce the broth slightly.

Variations and Customizations

Use Ground Turkey: A leaner option that still tastes amazing.
Add Veggies: Stir in chopped carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and skip the flour or use cornstarch.

Pairing Suggestions

Sides: Garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a crisp green salad.
Drinks: Classic root beer, lemonade, or a light lager.
Dessert: Chocolate chip cookies or banana pudding to finish on a sweet note.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – A creamy, hearty blend of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese—all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a comforting soup! Quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights. Garnish with herbs or pickles for extra flair.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Pickle slices (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef and Onion

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
Drain excess fat.

2. Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth and the drained diced tomatoes.
Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Add the Macaroni

Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot.
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Make It Cheesy

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
For a thicker consistency, mix flour with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir into the soup and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.

6. Season and Serve

Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives and pickle slices if desired.

Notes

This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
To add a smoky note, try using smoked cheddar.
For a true cheeseburger experience, don’t skip the pickle garnish!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: One-Pot
Cuisine: American