Name: One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – NO VELVEETA!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef; 2 teaspoons dried oregano (divided); 2 teaspoons dried thyme (divided); 6 tablespoons butter; 1 cup yellow onion, diced; 1 cup sliced carrots; 1 cup sliced celery; 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; fresh cracked pepper; 4 pieces sesame seed buns, diced into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; sliced green onion, for garnish; shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

Introduction to One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One-pot meals are redefining the way young professionals approach cooking. With hectic schedules and endless commitments, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen washing dishes. One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not just easy to prepare, but it also brings comforting warmth to your dinner table in under 30 minutes! This recipe combines the rich flavors of a cheeseburger with the creamy goodness of soup, all while keeping your cleanup to a minimum.

Imagine coming home after a long day at work. You’re tired, but you want something delicious and satisfying. This hearty soup fits the bill perfectly. Packed with protein from ground beef and bursting with flavor from fresh vegetables and seasonings, it's a nourishing option that appeals to all ages. Plus, it skips the processed ingredients like VELVEETA, using sharp cheddar cheese instead—resulting in a richer and creamier texture.

So, why not take a break from takeout and whip up this quick, delectable dish? Each spoonful delivers comfort and satisfaction while allowing you to reclaim some quality time in your evening. Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why embracing one-pot meals can be a game-changer for you!

Ingredients for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Goodness

Creating a comforting bowl of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is easier than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef (1 lb): The star of your soup, giving it that classic cheeseburger flavor.
Fresh veggies: Use 1 cup each of diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery for a hearty base.
Butter (6 tablespoons) and flour (4 tablespoons): These help create a silky, rich broth.
Chicken broth (8 cups): The soul of any good soup.
Elbow macaroni (8 oz): This adds that familiar mac and cheese texture.
Heavy cream (1 cup) and sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz): Essential for the creamy and cheesy element without relying on processed options.

Equipment You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious soup, gather these essential tools:

Large pot: For all the cooking magic.
Spatula: To mix and break up the beef seamlessly.
Baking sheet: For those crunchy sesame seed bun croutons you'll be making.
Parchment paper: To keep your baking easy and mess-free.

With these ingredients and tools in hand, you’re just a few steps away from a comforting bowl of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. Enjoy!

Step-by-step Preparation of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Creating a delightful One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is not just about convenience; it's about making a warm, filling dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

First things first, having everything ready to roll makes the cooking process a breeze. Gather the following ingredients before you start:

1 lb. ground beef
6 tablespoons butter
1 cup yellow onion, diced
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup sliced celery
5 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Don’t forget to include seasonings like dried oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper! You’ll also want to grab your favorite sesame seed buns for croutons. Preparing your ingredients ahead of time minimizes kitchen chaos and keeps your cooking experience stress-free.

Brown the Ground Beef

Next up, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add your pound of ground beef along with a teaspoon each of dried oregano and thyme, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let it brown while breaking it down into small pieces with a spatula—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once fully cooked, remove the beef from the pot and set aside. This step builds a strong flavor base for your soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

Without cleaning the pot (keeping all those flavorful drippings), melt six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. The smell should be amazing by now! To amp up the flavor, add in the minced garlic, remaining oregano, and thyme for an additional minute.

Create the Soup Base

Now, sprinkle in four tablespoons of flour and stir it well to coat the veggies. This creates a roux that helps thicken your soup. Deglaze the pot with a splash of chicken broth, scraping up those delightful bits stuck to the bottom. Then pour in the remaining broth along with the uncooked macaroni. Give it all a good stir and bring it to a simmer—this magical blend of flavors is just moments away.

Cook the Macaroni and Combine

When it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on those macaroni noodles, stirring occasionally until they are al dente. Once they’re perfectly cooked, remove the pot from heat before stirring in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Oh, and don’t forget to reintroduce the cooked ground beef!

Add Finishing Touches

Finally, for a little zing, add a teaspoon of white balsamic vinegar. Taste it and season with more salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, finish with crispy sesame seed bun croutons, and sprinkle green onions and shredded cheddar on top. Enjoy your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup—dinner just got a lot cozier!

Variations on One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Vegetarian Version

Want to enjoy the comforting flavors of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup without the meat? No problem! Simply swap out the ground beef for a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also add some bean protein or lentils for that extra punch. A splash of soy sauce or a couple of teaspoons of liquid smoke will add depth to your vegetarian version, keeping it delicious and satisfying.

Add Some Spice

Craving a flavor kick? Spice up your Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup by throwing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Alternatively, consider mixing in a tablespoon of taco seasoning for that added zest. Not only will this amp up the flavor, but it will also take your family’s favorite soup to a whole new level that’s sure to impress at dinner time!

Cooking Tips and Notes for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Cheese Choices Matter

When making your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, select high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a rich taste, especially when you shred it yourself. Avoid pre-shredded varieties, as they tend to have additives that hinder melting. For an extra twist, consider mixing in some Monterey Jack or Gouda to enhance creaminess!

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Just remember that the soup may thicken as it cools, so feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to regain that creamy consistency. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to three months. Enjoy this comforting meal whenever you need a quick, satisfying dish!

Serving Suggestions for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Pairing It with Fresh Breads

When indulging in One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, nothing complements it quite like fresh bread! Consider serving it with a warm, crusty baguette or a slice of garlic bread for a lovely crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, whip up some homemade focaccia with herbs to elevate your meal. The combination of flavors will keep everyone coming back for more, plus, the bread is perfect for scooping up that cheesy goodness!

Perfect Toppers

A personal favorite for this dish is the crispy sesame seed bun croutons, but don’t stop there! Try adding:

Sliced avocado for creaminess
Turkey bacon bits for a savory crunch
A dollop of sour cream for tang
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for brightness

Explore your creative toppings, and let your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup shine as the centerpiece of a cozy dinner!

Time Breakdown for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Preparation Time

Getting ready to whip up this delicious One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is quick and easy! You’ll only need 10 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients, making it a breeze to kick off your cooking.

Cooking Time

Once you're all set, the cooking process takes just 20 minutes. That’s right! Within a short span, you’ll have a rich, hearty soup bubbling away, with flavors melding beautifully.

Total Time

All in all, your One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup can be enjoyed in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence, but comfort food craving can't wait!

Nutritional Facts for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

When it comes to a satisfying meal, the One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup delivers both comfort and nutrition. Here's a closer look at its nutritional profile:

Calories per Serving

Each hearty serving of this delicious soup contains approximately 465 calories. This makes it a filling option without going overboard.

Protein Content

Packed with protein, this soup offers around 25.7 grams per serving. The ground beef and cheese provide a great source of this essential nutrient, helping to keep you full and satisfied.

Sodium Levels

With 1175.7 mg of sodium per serving, this dish is on the higher side. If you're watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier twist.

Whether you're serving it to family or saving some for lunch, this soup is a delightful blend of flavors that keeps your nutrition in mind. If you're curious about more healthy options, check out these nutrition tips to enhance your meals!

FAQs about One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup makes for a great make-ahead meal. Just prepare the soup, let it cool, and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it's time to enjoy, simply reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter substitute for heavy cream, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that using a different type of cream could slightly alter the flavor and texture of your soup.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Definitely! This delicious soup is freezer-friendly — just portion it into freezer-safe containers after it cools. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove, adding a bit of extra broth or cream if needed. Enjoy the comforting taste of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup whenever you like!

Conclusion on One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

Wrap-Up: Comfort Food Made Easy

In just 30 minutes, you can create a delicious and hearty meal that the entire family will adore with this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it's the ultimate comfort food! Remember, this recipe swaps out processed cheese for fresh ingredients, making it a healthier choice. Enjoy your cooking!