If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal, look no further than the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This creamy, cheesy, and savory soup takes all the flavors you love from a classic cheeseburger and combines them with the comforting appeal of macaroni. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, it’s made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
- Cheesy Comfort: Packed with creamy cheese and tender macaroni, this soup is pure comfort food.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of beef, pasta, and cheese is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s the perfect meal for those busy evenings.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced pickles, crumbled bacon, or a dollop of sour cream
How to Make One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, milk, and canned tomatoes. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings for extra flavor and texture. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or mix in some cooked bacon for extra smokiness.
- Make It Ahead: This soup reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.