There’s nothing quite like a hearty, cheesy bowl of soup to warm your soul, and this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with savory ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheddar cheese, this cozy dish combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the creamy richness of macaroni soup—all made in just one pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly days, or anytime you’re craving a comforting, satisfying meal, this cheeseburger soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Cheeseburger Soup
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One pot = fewer dishes
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Rich, cheesy flavor in every spoonful
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Customizable with your favorite burger toppings
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Great for leftovers
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Ready in under 30 minutes
This dish brings together everything you love about a cheeseburger—beef, cheese, onion, and seasoning—infused into a creamy, spoonable delight.
Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry and fridge:
Main Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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4 cups beef broth
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1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
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1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for more flavor)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional but recommended)
Optional Add-ins
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1/4 cup ketchup or mustard for a true burger flavor
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Pickle slices, chopped, for garnish
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Green onions or chives for topping
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Hot sauce for heat lovers
How to Make Cheeseburger Soup in One Pot
1. Brown the Beef
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Add Aromatics
Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Season the Soup
Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Mix well to evenly coat the beef and onions with the seasonings.
4. Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Cook the Macaroni
Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the pot. Stir occasionally and let simmer until pasta is tender—about 8–10 minutes.
6. Finish with Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and slowly fold in shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is fully melted and soup becomes thick and creamy.
7. Taste and Adjust
Add Worcestershire sauce or ketchup for depth and richness. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and top with chopped pickles, extra cheese, or green onions. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Soup
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Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese can be grainy due to anti-caking agents.
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Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to soften as it sits in the hot soup.
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Add pickles just before serving for that classic cheeseburger zing without overpowering the soup.
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Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty, creamy blend.
Variations and Substitutions
Low-Carb Option
Swap macaroni for cauliflower florets or use a low-carb pasta alternative.
Cheeseburger Bacon Soup
Add crispy bacon bits to the mix or sprinkle on top before serving.
Spicy Cheeseburger Soup
Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne for a fiery twist.
Double Cheeseburger Soup
Stir in Velveeta or cream cheese along with cheddar for an ultra-rich texture.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently
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Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much when reheated
Note: Freezing is possible, but the texture of the pasta may change. For best results, freeze the soup without the macaroni and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Perfect Pairings
Serve your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup with:
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Garlic toast or crusty sourdough
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Simple green salad with ranch dressing
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Sweet potato fries or baked zucchini rounds
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Iced tea or sparkling water with lemon
Why This Dish Works
The beauty of Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup lies in its ability to bring together familiar flavors in a new, unexpected format. It satisfies the craving for comfort while staying simple, affordable, and incredibly delicious.
Whether you’re cooking for kids, meal-prepping for the week, or just looking to cozy up with something warm and satisfying, this one-pot wonder has got you covered.
