One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the best of cheeseburgers and creamy soups, then this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It delivers that nostalgic cheeseburger flavor in a warm, cheesy soup packed with tender macaroni and savory ground beef. This dish is perfect for cozy evenings or feeding a crowd, blending simple ingredients into an unforgettable bowl of yum.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is chosen to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the earthy herbs that add depth, to the crisp vegetables that provide freshness, each element plays a crucial role in making the soup irresistible.

• 1 lb. ground beef: The savory star ingredient that brings rich, meaty flavor and heartiness to the soup.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided: Adds an herbal aroma and slightly peppery taste.
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided: Offers subtle earthiness that complements the beef.
• 6 tablespoons butter: For a luscious base and to cook the vegetables until tender.
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth as it softens.
• 1 cup sliced carrots: Adds a slight sweetness and beautiful orange hue.
• 1 cup sliced celery: Contributes a refreshing, crisp texture.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced: Offers aromatic pungency that wakes up the flavor.
• 4 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
• 8 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni: Provides comforting pasta bites that soak up the cheesy broth.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smooth texture to the soup.
• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings that irresistible cheeseburger flavor and melty texture.
• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar: Balances richness with a subtle tang.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning layers of flavor.
• Fresh cracked pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.
• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces: Toasting them creates crispy croutons that add texture contrast.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Coats the bun cubes for perfect baking.
• Sliced green onion, for garnish: Adds fresh color and a mild onion bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish: Extra cheesy goodness on top.

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. The crispy sesame seed bun croutons add a wonderful crunch that mimics the texture of a burger bun. Toss the diced bun pieces in olive oil to ensure they bake to golden perfection, then spread them evenly on a parchment-lined sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes until they are crispy on the outside but still tender inside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Using a large pot over medium heat, cook your ground beef with half the oregano and thyme, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Crumble it as it cooks, ensuring even browning and maximum flavor release. Once cooked through, remove it and set aside—this beef will make the soup beautifully meaty and savory.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables in Butter

In the same pot, melt the butter without cleaning it out—you want that leftover flavor. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook these veggies over medium-high heat for 10 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize, which intensifies their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

Lower the heat to medium and stir in minced garlic alongside the remaining dried oregano and thyme. Give it about a minute of cooking time to release that wonderful aroma before moving on.

Step 5: Create the Soup Base with Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for about a minute. This step is key to thickening your soup, giving it that creamy, satisfying body that makes every spoonful comforting.

Step 6: Deglaze and Add Broth

Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom—this is flavor gold. Then stir in the rest of the broth and add the uncooked macaroni. Season with an extra pinch of salt and pepper before bringing the mixture up to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Simmer the Soup Until Pasta is Tender

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, just until the macaroni is al dente. This gentle cooking melds all the flavors and perfectly cooks the pasta without getting mushy.

Step 8: Finish with Cream, Cheese, and Vinegar

Remove the soup from the heat, then stir in heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and luxuriously creamy. Add the white balsamic vinegar to brighten the richness and mix the cooked ground beef back in. Warm it gently on medium heat until everything is heated through, then taste for salt and pepper adjustments before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

Garnishes

For that final flourish, sprinkle sliced green onions and extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. These garnishes add fresh, sharp notes and an inviting presentation that make every bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This soup is a full meal on its own, but a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables provide a crisp balance to the creamy richness. If you feel like going all in, serve it alongside classic French fries or a crunchy dill pickle to channel that true cheeseburger experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup inside hollowed-out mini bread bowls or layer the crispy sesame bun croutons on top right before serving for added texture. You can also drizzle a little BBQ sauce for a smoky contrast, or sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon to amp up indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover soup into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an even better meal the next day.

Freezing

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Freeze in portions without the garnishes or crispy buns, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a pot over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking or overcooking. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to keep the soup nice and creamy as it warms up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic here, small pasta shapes like shells or mini penne will work just as well, holding onto the cheesy broth nicely.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavor balanced.

Can I make this soup in advance for a party?

This soup is a fantastic make-ahead option. Prepare it up to a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat before guests arrive. Add croutons and garnishes fresh to keep them crisp.

What can I use instead of white balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have white balsamic, a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice will also provide the subtle tang that brightens the creamy soup.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for thickening or try cornstarch mixed with cold water instead. Also, select gluten-free elbow macaroni to keep the soup safe for gluten-sensitive friends.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe is a true comfort food winner that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want a cozy meal, this creamy, cheesy soup hits all the right notes. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 79 reviews

• Author: admin
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

---

Description

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting, hearty soup that combines ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, tender elbow macaroni, and fresh vegetables in a creamy broth. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and topped with crispy homemade sesame seed bun croutons, this easy, flavorful soup is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Soup Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme, divided
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Croutons

• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish

• Sliced green onion, for garnish
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare Croutons: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced sesame seed buns in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are crispy and golden on the outside. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook Ground Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brown the beef, crumbling it with a spatula until it’s fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot (do not clean out the grease), melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Add Garlic and Herbs: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic along with the remaining 1 teaspoon oregano and 1 teaspoon thyme. Cook for about one minute until fragrant.
5. Add Flour: Sprinkle the 4 tablespoons of flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid sticking or burning.
6. Deglaze Pot: Pour a small splash of chicken broth into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.
7. Simmer Soup: Add the remaining chicken broth and uncooked elbow macaroni along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Turn heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Cook Pasta: Once simmering, reduce heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
9. Finish Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined.
10. Season and Add Beef: Stir in the white balsamic vinegar. Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and heat the soup over medium heat just until the beef is warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
11. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with crispy sesame seed bun croutons, sliced green onions, and extra shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy the warm, creamy delight!

---

Notes

• Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor but feel free to substitute with mild or extra sharp as preferred.
• The white balsamic vinegar adds a bright note but can be omitted or replaced with lemon juice if unavailable.
• Homemade sesame seed croutons add wonderful texture; store any extras in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• For a thicker soup, reduce the chicken broth slightly or add a bit more flour to the vegetable mixture.
• Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.