One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup (No Velveeta)

Hey there, food lover! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a dish that’s warm, comforting, and easy to make, especially when you want something that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Well, let me introduce you to this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup—trust me, you’re going to love this! It’s the perfect mix of cheesy, savory goodness with a little bit of burger flair thrown in. Picture a creamy, cheesy soup with juicy, flavorful beef and soft, comforting macaroni… can you almost taste it? This recipe skips the processed cheese and instead relies on real ingredients for a rich, satisfying flavor. Plus, cleanup’s a breeze since it’s all made in one pot. Say hello to your new go-to weeknight dinner!

Why You’ll Love One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This isn’t just another soup; it’s a meal in a bowl. It’s hearty, rich, and packs a punch in terms of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family, hosting a cozy dinner with friends, or craving a little comfort food after a long day, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Here’s why this is a favorite in my house:

• Versatile: This soup is ideal for busy weeknights, but it’s also fancy enough to serve at a gathering. Imagine how much your guests will love it when they ask for the recipe (they will, I promise). You can easily adapt it to fit your flavor preferences or dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple, everyday ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and basic seasonings, this soup proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s a great choice when you want something satisfying without breaking the bank.
• Quick and Easy: There’s no fuss with this recipe—just one pot, a few simple steps, and a little bit of time. Even beginners will feel like pros when they make this soup.
• Customizable: Want to add a little extra flavor? Throw in some bacon bits, a dash of hot sauce, or your favorite veggies. The possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed win with both kids and adults. The combination of cheesy goodness and familiar comfort food makes it an instant favorite at any table.

Ingredients in One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Here’s the magic of this soup—it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, but it tastes like a five-star meal. Let’s break it down:

• Ground Beef: The hearty base of this soup. It gives you that classic cheeseburger flavor that’s so satisfying.
• Macaroni Pasta: Small, tender noodles that soak up all the creamy goodness. They add the perfect texture to this soup.
• Cheddar Cheese: A rich, melty cheese that brings everything together. It’s the kind of cheese that’ll make you want to dive right in.
• Onion and Garlic: These two are the flavor base that adds a wonderful depth to the soup. The garlic is fragrant, and the onion adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• Beef Broth: The liquid that pulls it all together, creating the perfect soup texture.
• Milk: Makes the soup creamy and luscious—because we all know the best soups are the ones that are perfectly creamy.
• Tomato Paste: A little bit of tanginess and depth that perfectly balances the rich flavors.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard powder give this soup that “cheeseburger” vibe, but you can always adjust the spices to suit your taste.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece:

1. Brown the Beef

Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is all about building flavor, so let it cook until it’s nice and brown, breaking it up as you go. This only takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat, and you’re ready for the next step.

2. Add Onions and Garlic

Now, add your chopped onions and garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir them in and let them cook for 2-3 minutes, until they’re fragrant and soft. This will fill your kitchen with such a wonderful smell!

3. Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in your beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, add in your uncooked macaroni. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the beefy broth flavor.

4. Stir in the Cheese and Milk

Once the pasta is ready, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk. Let it melt into the soup, creating a creamy, cheesy texture that you’re going to want to dive into immediately. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder for that extra cheeseburger tang.

5. Simmer and Serve

Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes, until it’s thickened up a little and the flavors have come together. Now it’s time to serve! Ladle that cheesy goodness into bowls, sprinkle with a little more shredded cheese, and garnish with any extras you like.

How to Serve One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking to add a little extra flair, here are a few serving ideas:

• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to this rich and cheesy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crispy garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Pickles: A few crunchy pickles on the side are a fun nod to the classic cheeseburger theme!

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop your onions and garlic the night before to save time. You can also pre-grate your cheese to make the cooking process even faster.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the broth.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes wonderfully! Just let it cool, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work great here, though the flavor will be a little lighter.

Q2: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this soup is great for make-ahead meals! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little extra milk for that creamy texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Of course! Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Conclusion:

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s cheesy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying—all made in one pot for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy meal, this soup has got you covered. Enjoy every bite!

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