One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining cheesy deliciousness with hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table. With just one pot required and ready in only 30 minutes, this dish is not just easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will please both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready for your family.
• One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple dishes! Everything cooks in one pot, making clean-up a breeze.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory vegetables creates a comforting taste experience.
• Versatile Meal: This soup is great on its own or served with crunchy croutons for added texture.
• Family Favorite: Kids love it! The creamy soup combined with macaroni makes it a hit at any dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will help you make this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup easily. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients comfortably.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting the bread cubes into delicious croutons without hassle.

Ingredients

To make this comforting One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup

• 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
• Fresh cracked pepper

For the Croutons

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

For Garnish

• Sliced green onion
• Shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare Croutons

Place the sesame seed bun cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Bake for 10 minutes or until crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same large pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat (there’s no need to wipe out or drain grease). Add diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and a large pinch of salt and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Herbs

Reduce heat to medium and stir in minced garlic along with remaining oregano and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Create a Roux

Add flour to the veggies and stir well to coat them. Cook for one more minute while stirring frequently.

Step 7: Deglaze with Chicken Broth

Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot by scraping all those delicious bits off the bottom.

Step 8: Combine Broth and Pasta

Stir in the remaining chicken broth along with uncooked macaroni noodles. Season with another pinch of salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high until it reaches a simmer.

Step 9: Simmer Until Pasta is Done

Once simmering, reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 10: Add Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream along with shredded cheese until melted.

Step 11: Final Touches

Mix in white balsamic vinegar and return cooked ground beef back into the pot. Heat over medium for a few minutes until everything is warmed through. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 12: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls topped with crispy sesame seed bun croutons, garnished with sliced green onions and additional shredded cheddar cheese before enjoying!

How to Serve One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not only hearty and delicious, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for creative serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to elevate your soup experience.

Croutons

• Homemade Sesame Seed Croutons: Add a crunchy texture by topping your soup with crispy croutons made from sesame seed buns, drizzled with olive oil and baked until golden brown.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the creamy soup.

Cheese Toppings

• Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A generous handful of shredded cheddar adds creaminess and enhances the cheeseburger flavor profile.

Spicy Kick

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick to each bowl.

Bread Pairing

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside toasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth and make every bite satisfying.

Salad Side

• Simple Green Salad: Pair with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup and add freshness.

How to Perfect One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Perfecting your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup can enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your soup comes out just right.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh ingredients provide better flavor and texture. Opt for crisp carrots, celery, and onions for optimal taste.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs gradually to achieve the perfect seasoning level.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook macaroni until al dente for the best texture. It will continue cooking slightly once added to the hot soup.
• Incorporate Broth Gradually: When deglazing the pot, add broth gradually. This allows you to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck at the bottom effectively.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps all flavors meld together beautifully. Just be sure not to let it boil too aggressively.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique twist; gouda or pepper jack can add an interesting flavor dimension.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup enhances your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements any soup perfectly. Toast slices with garlic butter until golden brown.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and balances out the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers provide a healthy touch alongside the rich flavors of the soup.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair well with savory soups, offering a delightful contrast in flavor.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side dish that kids will love.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich cheeseburger soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and cheese create a hearty side that complements the main dish well.
8. Pickles or Pickled Veggies: Tangy pickles offer a sharp contrast that cuts through the richness of the soup, enhancing each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your beef or vegetables properly can lead to bland soup. Always season at each stage of cooking for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the macaroni too long, it can become mushy. Make sure to check for al dente texture when simmering.
• Not deglazing the pot: Failing to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot can miss out on rich flavors. Always add a splash of broth early to incorporate these flavors.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheddar is essential for a creamy texture and flavor. Choose high-quality sharp cheddar for a richer taste.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions: If you have dietary restrictions, don’t hesitate to swap ingredients. For example, use ground turkey instead of beef if desired.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many home cooks have similar questions about this comforting dish. Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and adjust seasonings accordingly.

How can I customize One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter option.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and cheeseburger flavor make it appealing to kids and adults alike.

How do I make it spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful combination of flavors that brings comfort in every spoonful. This recipe is versatile; you can easily customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy this easy-to-make dish with your family!