Introduction

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that combines classic burger flavors in a comforting bowl. Ground beef, pasta, and cheese come together in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. If you enjoy cheesy dishes, you might also like the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

This hearty hamburger mac and cheese combines savory ground beef with creamy cheddar in a rich, comforting broth that will warm you from the inside out.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This recipe is approximately 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and measure them accurately. This ensures a smooth cooking process without interruptions.

Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Keep proteins chilled until ready to use to maintain freshness.

Step 2 — Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Preheat your oven to 375°F or your skillet over medium-high heat. A properly heated surface is crucial for proper browning and texture.

Test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water—if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, you’re ready to cook.

Step 3 — Sauté Aromatics

Heat oil in your pan and add chopped onions, garlic, or other aromatics. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–5 minutes.

Avoid burning by keeping the heat at medium and stirring frequently. Burnt garlic will make the entire dish bitter.

Step 4 — Cook Proteins

Add your protein to the pan and cook until properly browned on all sides. For poultry, cook until no pink remains.

Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 165°F for poultry, 145°F for pork, and 160°F for ground meats.

Step 5 — Add Vegetables and Liquids

Add harder vegetables first, then softer ones. Pour in broth, wine, or other liquids to create your sauce base.

Bring to a simmer before reducing heat. The liquid should bubble gently, not boil vigorously.

Step 6 — Simmer and Develop Flavors

Cover and simmer for the recommended time, usually 20–30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Taste and adjust seasoning halfway through. The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the back of a spoon.

Step 7 — Check Doneness and Adjust

Test vegetables for tenderness—they should be cooked through but not mushy. Proteins should be tender and easily shred with a fork.

If the dish is too watery, simmer uncovered to reduce. If too thick, add more liquid a tablespoon at a time.

Step 8 — Final Seasoning and Resting

Add fresh herbs, citrus juice, or final seasoning adjustments. Remember that flavors intensify as the dish rests.

Let the dish stand off heat for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and distribute evenly.

Step 9 — Plate and Serve

Portion the dish onto warm plates. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of quality olive oil for visual appeal.

Serve immediately while hot. The ideal serving temperature for most hot dishes is 165°F–175°F.

Nutritional Information

Calories	…
Protein	…
Carbohydrates	…
Fat	…
Fiber	…
Sodium	…

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean ground turkey — A lighter protein swap with a mild, savory flavor that absorbs seasonings beautifully.
• Cauliflower rice — A lower-carb alternative with a neutral taste that pairs well with bold sauces and spices.
• Coconut milk — A creamy, dairy-free option that adds a subtle tropical sweetness to soups and curries.
• Tamari or coconut aminos — A gluten-free, lower-sodium substitute for soy sauce, offering rich umami depth.
• Greek yogurt — A protein-rich, tangy alternative to sour cream or mayonnaise in dressings and dips.
• Zucchini noodles — A fresh, low-carb pasta swap with a delicate texture that works in salads and stir-fries.
• Nutritional yeast — A dairy-free cheesy flavor boost, perfect for sprinkling over popcorn, pasta, or roasted veggies.
• Avocado oil — A neutral, high-heat cooking oil with heart-healthy fats, ideal for sautéing and roasting.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a comforting dinner
• Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings
• Great as meal prep for busy weekdays
• Elevate with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil before serving
• Beautiful when garnished with colorful edible flowers or microgreens

This versatile dish adapts well to various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Consider your audience and setting when choosing presentation style.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overmixing batter, which develops excess gluten. Fix: Mix just until ingredients combine for a tender crumb.
• Mistake: Using cold ingredients straight from the fridge. Fix: Bring butter, eggs, and dairy to room temperature for better emulsification.
• Mistake: Inaccurate oven temperature causing uneven baking. Fix: Use an oven thermometer and preheat thoroughly.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking sheet, leading to steaming. Fix: Leave adequate space between items for proper air circulation.
• Mistake: Substituting ingredients without considering their roles. Fix: Understand each ingredient’s function before making swaps.
• Mistake: Opening the oven door too early, causing temperature drops. Fix: Wait until at least 75% of the bake time has passed before checking.
• Mistake: Not properly preparing pans, resulting in sticking. Fix: Grease, flour, or line pans according to recipe specifications.
• Mistake: Ignoring mise en place, leading to missed steps. Fix: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting to mix.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a microwave, stovetop, or oven, adding a splash of liquid if needed to prevent drying out.

Always use shallow containers for quicker cooling and more even reheating to maintain food safety and quality.

Conclusion

This one-pot macaroni cheeseburger soup is the ultimate comfort meal, combining classic flavors in a single pot for easy cleanup. We hope you love this hearty dish as much as we do! Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments. For more cozy recipes, check out our Baked Macaroni and Cheese and Mac Cheese Bacon Burger Rolls Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe in advance. For best results, follow the storage instructions carefully to maintain freshness and flavor.

What are some good substitutions for the main ingredient?

You can substitute the main ingredient with similar alternatives that match the texture and cooking time. This flexibility makes the recipe adaptable to different dietary needs.

How can I adjust the recipe for a larger group?

Simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping the cooking times and temperatures consistent. This recipe scales well for serving more people.