One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food fusion—uniting the beloved flavors of a classic American cheeseburger and creamy macaroni in a warm, hearty soup. Packed with ground beef, cheddar cheese, elbow macaroni, and aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, this one-pot wonder is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly day, and clean-up is a breeze!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 lb. ground beef

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion

• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots

• 1 cup thinly sliced celery

• 5 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 8 oz. elbow macaroni, uncooked

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 teaspoon white balsamic vinegar

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Freshly cracked pepper, to taste

For the Croutons:

• 4 sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish:

• Finely sliced green onion

• Additional shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Prepare Croutons: Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange diced sesame seed buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for about 10 minutes until crisp.

2. Cook Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef with 1 tsp each oregano and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Cook fully, breaking it up as it browns. Transfer to a separate bowl.

3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, melt butter. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté on medium-high for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add Garlic and Herbs: Reduce heat to medium, stir in garlic, remaining oregano and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.

5. Add Flour: Sprinkle flour over veggies and stir for 1 more minute.

6. Deglaze and Simmer: Add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze, scraping the bottom. Pour in the rest of the broth and macaroni. Season again, bring to a simmer over medium-high.

7. Cook Pasta: Reduce to low and simmer for 5–7 minutes until macaroni is al dente, stirring occasionally.

8. Finish Soup: Remove from heat, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar. Add white balsamic vinegar and return beef to the pot. Heat until warmed through.

9. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls. Top with croutons, green onions, and extra cheddar cheese.

Nutrients (estimated per serving, based on 10 servings)

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: ~20g

• Fat: ~28g

• Carbohydrates: ~30g

• Fiber: ~2g

• Sugar: ~4g

• Sodium: ~600mg

What Makes This Soup Special

Unlike traditional cheeseburger soup recipes, this version elevates flavor by incorporating classic burger ingredients—ground beef, cheddar cheese, onions, and even sesame bun croutons—into a creamy macaroni soup base. The real genius lies in its one-pot preparation. From browning the beef to simmering the vegetables and pasta, everything cooks in a single pot, meaning minimal clean-up and maximum flavor. With just 30 minutes from stove to table, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Flavor Profile and Texture

This soup is rich, savory, and cheesy with a delightful blend of textures. The tender macaroni absorbs the broth beautifully while adding a mild bite. Ground beef infuses the base with robust flavor, complemented by buttery vegetables and aromatic herbs like thyme and oregano. Shredded sharp cheddar melts into the soup to create a luscious, creamy consistency, while a splash of white balsamic vinegar at the end brightens the entire dish with a subtle tang. Topped with sesame bun croutons, green onions, and extra cheese, each spoonful offers crunch, creaminess, and a burst of umami.

Perfect for All Seasons

Though this soup is a cold-weather favorite, its light yet creamy base makes it enjoyable year-round. Unlike heavy cream-based chowders or chili, One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup strikes a balanced richness without feeling overly indulgent. You can enjoy it as a hearty meal on its own or pair it with a crisp green salad for contrast during warmer months.

A Family-Friendly Favorite

Kids love the familiar flavors of cheeseburgers and mac and cheese, and this recipe brings them together in a fun and slurpable way. Adults, too, appreciate how comforting and nostalgic this dish feels, with its layers of flavor and homemade touch. Plus, it’s easy to customize—mild or sharp cheddar, different types of ground meat, or even hidden veggies for picky eaters. It’s a foolproof way to please a crowd.

Simple Ingredients, Big Impact

This recipe uses everyday pantry and fridge staples, yet the result feels gourmet. The chicken broth adds depth while the heavy cream and cheddar cheese build creaminess. Aromatics like garlic, onion, and carrots round out the flavor, and the sesame bun croutons serve as a clever nod to the burger theme. It’s an affordable, accessible meal that still tastes like something special.

Quick and Convenient Weeknight Dinner

In today’s fast-paced world, time is precious. This soup respects that with its streamlined cooking method. There’s no need for multiple pots or complicated prep—just a single large pot, some chopping, and a few quick stages of layering ingredients. The result is a full, satisfying meal with protein, dairy, vegetables, and grains, all in one bowl.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup stores exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the silky texture. The croutons are best stored separately to maintain their crunch.

For longer storage, freeze the soup before adding the dairy. When ready to serve, reheat the base, stir in cream and cheese fresh, and garnish to taste. This method preserves both texture and flavor without compromise.

Health and Nutrition Highlights

While indulgent, this soup still offers balanced nutrition. Each bowl delivers around 450 calories with 20 grams of protein—thanks to the lean ground beef and cheese. The carrots, celery, and onions provide essential vitamins and minerals, while whole milk and cheese offer calcium and fat-soluble nutrients. If you’re looking to lighten it up, use reduced-fat dairy or lean ground turkey, and add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is satisfying enough to be served on its own but also pairs well with simple side dishes. Try a crisp romaine salad with a vinaigrette, or a tray of roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For beverages, pair with a dry white wine like Chardonnay, a sparkling apple cider, or even a craft lager to complement the cheesy, savory flavors.

To make this dish more festive, serve it in small soup mugs with skewered croutons for dipping—perfect for parties or casual gatherings. It’s also a fantastic addition to game day spreads, family potlucks, or fall-themed dinners.

Variations and Customizations

This soup is endlessly adaptable. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika or swap in bacon for some of the ground beef. Spice lovers can add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. To boost nutrition, stir in baby spinach, kale, or cauliflower florets near the end of cooking.

Cheese can be customized as well—try a mix of Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even cream cheese for added richness. For a vegetarian version, skip the beef and use lentils or plant-based crumbles. Gluten-free macaroni also works well with minimal texture change.

Why It’s Worth Making Again and Again

Few recipes hit all the marks like this one. It’s comforting yet quick, familiar yet creative, hearty yet budget-friendly. With simple ingredients, streamlined cooking, and big flavor, One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a modern classic in the making. It brings together the soul-satisfying nature of soup with the fun of cheeseburger night—making it a dish that deserves a spot on your regular dinner rotation.

Conclusion

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is more than just a clever mashup—it’s a celebration of everything we love about classic comfort food. With creamy cheese, tender pasta, savory beef, and toasty croutons, every bite delivers warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner, a cozy meal to beat the cold, or a new way to enjoy your favorite flavors, this soup delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary night into something a little more special—and leaves you looking forward to leftovers.