When you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like a steaming bowl of One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup. This hearty recipe combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta—simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the kind of cozy dinner that warms you from the inside out and keeps everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, cold-weather meals, or easy party food ideas, this one-pot wonder comes together in under 30 minutes. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot. If you’re on the hunt for cheesy recipes that double as kid-approved, family-friendly dinners, this is one dish you’ll want to bookmark and make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

One-pot simplicity – fewer dishes, less mess, and more flavor.
Family favorite – tastes like a cheeseburger but served as a warm, cozy soup.
Quick weeknight dinner – ready in under 30 minutes.
Creamy and cheesy – rich cheddar cheese gives it that irresistible comfort food feel.
Versatile recipe – easy to customize with veggies, spices, or different proteins.
Budget-friendly – made with pantry staples and affordable ingredients.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ground beef: Provides a hearty, meaty base for the soup. Use lean beef to avoid excess grease or swap with turkey for a lighter version.
Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Tomatoes: A touch of acidity that balances the richness of the beef and cheese. You can use canned diced tomatoes or fresh, depending on what you have.
Beef broth: Infuses the soup with savory flavor and helps cook the pasta. Low-sodium broth is best for controlling salt levels.
Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta choice that soaks up the cheesy broth. Small pasta shells or rotini also work well.
Cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that creates a creamy, gooey texture. Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, while mild cheddar is more kid-friendly.
Milk: Brings creaminess and helps bind the soup together. Use whole milk for richness or lighter milk for fewer calories.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Optional add-ins: Garlic for an extra kick, paprika for warmth, frozen peas or carrots for more nutrition, and fresh herbs for garnish.

Pro Tips

Brown the beef properly: Let the beef sear and develop a golden crust before breaking it up completely. This step deepens the flavor of the soup.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Add pasta once the broth is boiling and cook just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.
Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect creaminess. Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother.
Balance the flavors: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or even add a splash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Use a heavy pot: A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot helps distribute heat evenly and prevents sticking.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

Switch the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
Cheese options: Try mozzarella for extra gooeyness, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a cheddar blend for added depth.
Make it spicy: Stir in diced green chilies, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes for a bold twist.
Vegetable boost: Add corn, bell peppers, or zucchini to sneak in extra veggies without changing the flavor profile.
Gluten-free option: Substitute gluten-free pasta and check that your broth is certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it a complete meal. Serve it with crusty garlic bread for dipping, a fresh green salad for balance, or roasted vegetables on the side. If you’re serving a crowd, add a toppings bar with extras like crispy bits, diced pickles, or jalapeños for a fun cheeseburger-inspired twist.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make ahead: You can cook the beef, onions, and broth mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat and add pasta and cheese just before serving.
Storing leftovers: Keep cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb more broth, so you might need to add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
Freezing tips: Because of the dairy and pasta, freezing is not recommended—these ingredients can separate and change texture. If you want to freeze, cook the base without pasta and cheese, then add those fresh when reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often. If you have an air fryer or toaster oven, serve with reheated garlic bread for that extra comfort factor.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Cheeseburger soup is a modern spin on classic American comfort food. While traditional cheeseburgers became a staple in the 1920s, turning them into a soup gained popularity in Midwestern kitchens in the late 20th century. Families were looking for cozy, budget-friendly meals that stretched pantry staples and could feed a crowd. This soup carries that same spirit of warmth, affordability, and nostalgia—perfect for busy households or gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use Velveeta instead of cheddar?
Yes, Velveeta melts smoothly and gives the soup a creamy texture, though the flavor will be milder than sharp cheddar.

What pasta works best for this soup?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells, rotini, or ditalini work great because they hold onto the broth and cheese.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and onions first, then add all ingredients except pasta, milk, and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low 6–7 hours or high 3–4 hours. Add pasta during the last 30 minutes, then stir in milk and cheese just before serving.

How do I thicken the soup if it’s too runny?
Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid, or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water. Add slowly until the soup reaches your desired consistency.

Is this soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the cheeseburger flavor. For picky eaters, skip the optional veggies and stick with the classic beef, pasta, and cheese combo.

Emily