How to Make Cheesy Cheeseburger Mac Soup in One Pot

If you’re craving something hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor, look no further than this rich and creamy cheeseburger mac soup. It’s the perfect one-pot wonder that brings together everything you love about a cheeseburger—ground beef, melty cheese, and savory seasonings—all in a comforting soup form. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight or planning an easy weekend dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

A Bowl of Warm Memories

Think back to the last time you wrapped your hands around a warm bowl of soup. Remember the comfort it brought after a long day? Cheeseburger mac soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a reminder of simpler times, of family dinners where laughter filled the kitchen and you always went back for seconds. It brings back cozy memories while keeping things practical for busy days. You only need one pot, about 40 minutes, and a little hunger to make magic happen.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cheeseburger Mac Soup

There are plenty of reasons to bookmark this recipe and come back to it again and again:

• Everything cooks in one pot — minimal cleanup, maximum convenience
• Bold, cheesy flavor that mimics your favorite cheeseburger
• Kid-friendly and ideal for picky eaters
• Fast and effortless—on your table in less than 60 minutes.
• Flexible: adapt it to your tastes or dietary needs

In a world where time is short and comfort food is in high demand, this dish checks every box.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Here’s what you need to gather before you get cooking:

One-Pot Ingredient List

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Ground beef	1 lb	80/20 recommended for flavor
Onion (chopped)	1 medium	Yellow or sweet preferred
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	Fresh adds better flavor
Elbow macaroni	1 cup	Uncooked
Beef broth	4 cups	Use low-sodium if possible
Diced tomatoes	1 can (14.5 oz)	Do not drain
Tomato paste	2 tbsp	Adds depth
Cheddar cheese	2 cups	Sharp cheese melts better
Milk or cream	1 cup	For extra richness
Worcestershire sauce	1 tbsp	Brings umami flavor
Mustard	1 tbsp	Optional, adds tang
Salt and pepper	To taste	Add at the end to balance

Tip: For an extra punch, toss in a dash of hot sauce or top with dill pickles after serving.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cheeseburger Mac Soup in One Pot

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Warm up a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat to get things going. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is mostly browned, stir in the onions and garlic for extra flavor. Cook until the onions are translucent and the beef is fully cooked.

2. Add Broth and Tomatoes

Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Let the soup gently simmer, stirring now and then to keep things moving.

3. Drop in the Pasta

Toss the dry macaroni into the pot, stir to combine, then lower the heat to keep it gently simmering. Cook for 10–12 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring every few minutes to keep it from sticking.

4. Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and add in your milk or cream along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup reaches a smooth, creamy texture. Taste and season as needed.

5. Serve and Garnish

Ladle your cheeseburger mac soup into bowls. Top with extra shredded cheese, chopped pickles, crumbled bacon, or even a few crispy onions for added crunch.

Creative Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment—these ideas can help you switch things up:

Customization Ideas

• Bacon Cheeseburger Soup: Add cooked, crumbled bacon into the pot or sprinkle on top.
• Spicy Kick: Include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Watching your carbs? Use chopped cauliflower in place of pasta.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based beef crumbles and vegetable broth.
• Loaded Burger Style: Add shredded lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of ketchup when serving.

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so don’t hesitate to try new things and tailor it to your preferences.

Storing and Reheating Your Cheeseburger Mac Soup

Leftovers are often even better the next day. Want to save some for later? Follow these smart storage tips:

• Refrigerator: Store any extra portions in a tightly closed container in the refrigerator; they’ll stay fresh for around 4 days.
• Freezer: For best results, freeze the soup without pasta. Add cooked pasta when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if it has thickened too much.

Proper storage ensures you enjoy every last spoonful, waste-free.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving Estimate)

Nutrient	Approx. Amount
Calories	~450
Protein	~25g
Carbohydrates	~35g
Fat	~25g
Fiber	~3g
Sodium	~800mg

Keep in mind, these values will vary depending on the exact ingredients you use.

FAQs About Cheeseburger Mac Soup

Wondering how this stands out from regular cheeseburger pasta?

Unlike thick one-pan meals, this version is more of a rich, cheesy soup—like a cheeseburger in comfort-food form.

Thinking of using a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes. For the slow cooker, brown your beef first, then add all ingredients except dairy and pasta. Cook on low for 4–6 hours. Make sure to stir in the cheese and cream only after cooking is done. For pressure cooking, brown the meat using the sauté setting, then add everything else and cook under pressure for four minutes.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a slice or two of American cheese for nostalgia.

Is it possible to make it gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your broth label to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Need to tweak the texture of your soup?

Here’s how:

• Thicker: Let it simmer uncovered or add more cheese.
• Thinner: Just add a splash of broth or milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts: A Soup That Hits Every Note

You don’t need hours in the kitchen or a culinary degree to create something memorable. This cheesy cheeseburger mac soup is proof that a few everyday ingredients, when combined with care, can turn into something extraordinary. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and best of all, it’s made in just one pot.

So next time you’re looking for a comforting meal that hits the spot, pull out your soup pot and let this recipe do the talking. Your future self will thank you.

Ready to try it? Share your creations or tweaks in the comments below. If you loved it, pass it on—comfort this good is meant to be shared.