One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty, creamy, and comforting dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a single bowl. Packed with tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese, this soup is topped with homemade croutons and fresh garnishes for an extra layer of texture and flavor. With minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

📋 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 carrots , sliced
• 1 cup celery , sliced
• 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

For the Croutons:

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

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Shredded cheddar cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Croutons

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
2. Arrange the diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil , tossing to coat evenly.
3. Bake for 10 minutes , or until golden brown and crispy. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat , cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through. Season with 1 teaspoon oregano , 1 teaspoon thyme , salt , and pepper , stirring occasionally.
2. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Leave any flavorful bits in the pot for added depth.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat . Add the diced onion , sliced carrots , and celery . Season with a pinch of salt and pepper .
2. Cook for about 10 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs

1. Stir in the minced garlic , the remaining 1 teaspoon oregano , and 1 teaspoon thyme . Cook for 1 minute , allowing the garlic and herbs to release their aroma.

Step 5: Add Flour and Broth

1. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute , stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
2. Deglaze the pot with a splash of chicken broth , scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
3. Add the remaining chicken broth , followed by the uncooked macaroni . Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the pasta is al dente , about 5–7 minutes .

Step 6: Stir in Cream and Cheese

1. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream , shredded cheddar cheese , and white balsamic vinegar . Stir until the cheese melts into the soup, creating a rich and creamy texture.
2. Return the browned ground beef to the pot and stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with the homemade croutons , fresh sliced green onions , and an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese .
2. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!

Tips for Success

• Crouton Variations: Use regular bread or baguette slices instead of buns if preferred. Add a pinch of garlic powder or Parmesan cheese to the croutons for extra flavor.
• Cheese Options: Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Note that the pasta may absorb more liquid as it sits—add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup (without the pasta) for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.
• Customize It: Add diced tomatoes, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delicious twist on a classic cheeseburger, combining all the comforting flavors you love in a single bowl. The creamy, cheesy broth, tender macaroni, and savory ground beef make it a satisfying meal, while the homemade croutons and fresh garnishes add crunch and brightness. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Dive into this cheesy, hearty soup and let it warm your soul!

⏱ Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~45 minutes

🍽 Servings:

6–8 servings

🔥 Calories (Approximate):

~450 kcal per serving (varies based on toppings and portion size)