Introduction to One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

If you’re craving comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the stomach, look no further than One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. Imagine everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger—beef, cheese, pasta, and savory seasonings—transformed into a creamy, hearty soup. It’s the kind of dish that makes cold nights cozy and busy weeknights easier.

The best part? This recipe comes together in one pot. No juggling multiple pans or endless cleanup—just rich, cheesy goodness in every spoonful. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family, meal prepping, or impressing guests with something hearty yet simple.

Why One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Is a Game-Changer

What sets this recipe apart from other soups or pasta dishes? Let’s dig into the reasons.

1. Comfort Food at Its Best

This soup combines the creamy texture of macaroni and cheese with the savory depth of a cheeseburger, making it the ultimate comfort food mashup.

2. One-Pot Wonder

Less cleanup, fewer dishes, and maximum flavor. Everything cooks in the same pot, which means the flavors build together beautifully.

3. Budget-Friendly

It uses pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, and cheese, making it affordable for families.

4. Kid-Approved

Picky eaters love it because it feels like eating a cheeseburger and mac & cheese in soup form.

5. Meal Prep Friendly

This soup reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for later.

It’s no wonder One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is becoming a staple in kitchens everywhere.

The Flavor Profile: What to Expect in Every Spoonful

This soup isn’t just hearty—it’s loaded with layers of flavor. Here’s what you can expect:

Savory richness from browned ground beef and onions.
Creamy, cheesy base thanks to a blend of cheddar (and sometimes Velveeta or cream cheese for extra smoothness).

Comforting pasta texture with tender elbow macaroni.
Hints of tomato tanginess from diced tomatoes or tomato paste.
Warmth from spices like garlic, paprika, or even a touch of mustard for that cheeseburger essence.

Every bite feels like a hug in a bowl—familiar, flavorful, and satisfying.

Health Benefits (and Indulgence Factor) of Cheeseburger Soup

Let’s be honest: this is more indulgence than diet food. But that doesn’t mean it’s without benefits.

1. Protein-Packed

Ground beef and cheese give you a solid dose of protein, helping to keep you full longer.

2. Customizable Nutrition

You can lighten it up by using lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat pasta.

3. Veggie-Friendly Options

Add carrots, celery, spinach, or peppers to sneak in extra vitamins and minerals.

4. Comfort Food for Mental Wellness

There’s real joy in enjoying a bowl of cheesy, hearty soup. Comfort food plays a role in boosting mood and reducing stress.

5. Balanced Meal Potential

When paired with a simple salad or roasted veggies, this soup makes for a well-rounded meal.

So yes, One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is indulgent, but it can also be nourishing with a few smart tweaks.

Key Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This soup shines because it uses simple, familiar ingredients that come together beautifully.

1. Ground Beef

The star of the show.
Use lean beef for less grease, or swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

2. Onion and Garlic

Essential for building flavor.

Sautéed until fragrant and golden.

3. Elbow Macaroni

Classic choice for texture and nostalgia.
Other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini also work.

4. Broth/Base

Beef broth adds depth.
Chicken or vegetable broth works in a pinch.

5. Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes or tomato paste bring balance with acidity.

Adds that “ketchup-like” cheeseburger vibe.

6. Cheese

Sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
Velveeta or cream cheese for extra creaminess.

7. Milk or Cream

Helps create a silky, rich base.
Can be substituted with half-and-half for indulgence or milk for a lighter option.

8. Seasonings

Salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder enhance the cheeseburger flavor.

Optional: a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami.

9. Garnishes

Pickles, bacon crumbles, or green onions add a fun finishing touch.

Together, these ingredients create a flavor-packed, hearty soup that’s as fun as it is satisfying.

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – The Ultimate Comfort Meal

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni (or gluten-free pasta)
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• Optional toppings: chopped dill pickles, diced tomatoes, green onions, more ketchup

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté 4–5 minutes until soft.

Add garlic and ground beef. Cook 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in beef broth, milk, macaroni, mustard, ketchup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and soup is creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning—add more mustard for tang or ketchup for sweetness.
Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite burger fixings: pickles, onions, tomatoes, or extra cheese!

✨ Ready in 30 minutes and cleanup is easy—true one-pot magic!

💡 Make it heartier: Add a handful of spinach or swap in cauliflower pasta for a lighter version.

PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 20 mins , Total Time : 30 mins , Servings : 6 , Calories : 320 , Net Carbs: 24g , Fats: 16g , Protein: 22g