If cozy had a flavor, it would taste just like this One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – NO VELVEETA! This hearty, cheesy, beefy bowl of goodness is everything you love about a cheeseburger and mac & cheese transformed into a spoonable, soul-warming soup. And the best part? It all comes together in one pot and without a single cube of Velveeta. Just real, creamy cheese and a whole lot of comfort. Trust me, you’re going to want seconds (and thirds).

Why You’ll Love One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – NO VELVEETA!

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a chilly evening in, looking for something family-friendly, or craving a bowl of nostalgia with a modern twist, this soup fits the bill. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works great for dinner, lunch leftovers, or feeding a crowd at a casual gathering.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples and everyday ingredients that don’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: One pot, minimal prep, and done in about 30 minutes. What’s not to love?

Customizable: Add your own spin toss in veggies, switch up the cheese, or go spicy.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – NO VELVEETA!

Here’s the delicious lineup that brings this cozy bowl together:

Ground Beef: The heart of the cheeseburger flavor savory, meaty, and satisfying.

Macaroni Pasta: Classic elbow noodles that soak up all the cheesy goodness and give this soup its signature bite.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Real, sharp cheddar melts beautifully into a creamy base no Velveeta needed!

Onion & Garlic: Aromatic building blocks that infuse the soup with savory depth.

Beef Broth: Adds richness and rounds out the soup with bold flavor.

Milk or Cream: Makes everything silky smooth and creamy.

Diced Tomatoes: Brings brightness and just a hint of acidity to cut the richness.

Butter & Flour: Used for a quick roux to thicken the soup and make it lusciously creamy.

Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and a little mustard powder for that burger zing.

Optional Add-Ins: Pickles, cooked bacon, or a dollop of ketchup for extra cheeseburger vibes.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it up as it cooks and season with salt and pepper. Once cooked through, remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, melt the butter and add the diced onion. Cook until soft and translucent, then stir in the garlic for another minute until fragrant.

Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a paste. Cook for a minute or two to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the beef broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Add Tomatoes and Pasta: Stir in the diced tomatoes and uncooked macaroni. Simmer gently until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cheese It Up: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. Add the cooked ground beef back to the pot and stir until everything is combined.

Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasonings. Add paprika, mustard powder, or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor if desired.

Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with more shredded cheese, green onions, or even crumbled bacon. Warm, cheesy bliss!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approx. 480–520 depending on cheese and milk used

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – NO VELVEETA!

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy soup
• Add a side salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness
• Top with pickles, jalapeños, or hot sauce for a fun twist
• For a comfort food feast, pair with classic oven fries or tater tots

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use freshly shredded cheese it melts better and gives a smoother texture than pre-shredded.
• Don’t overcook the pasta or it will get mushy. Simmer until just tender.
• Add more broth or milk if the soup thickens too much as it sits.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days reheat gently and add a splash of milk to loosen.
• Make it vegetarian by swapping in plant-based crumbles and veggie broth.

FAQ’s

1 Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Small shells, rotini, or penne also work beautifully.

2 What kind of cheese is best for this soup?
Sharp cheddar melts well and brings that classic cheeseburger flavor. You can also blend with Monterey Jack or Colby.

3 Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just know the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating.

4 How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.

5 Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but fresh-shredded cheese melts more smoothly and avoids graininess.

6 Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely try adding peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients.

7 Does this taste like an actual cheeseburger?
Pretty close! The beef, cheese, tomato, and seasonings give it major cheeseburger vibes.

8 How do I keep the cheese from clumping?
Add cheese gradually over low heat and stir constantly until smooth.

9 Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, it reheats well just store in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

10 What should I do if my soup is too thick?
Stir in more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup – NO VELVEETA! is everything comfort food should be creamy, cheesy, beefy, and downright delicious. And with just one pot to clean, it’s a no-fuss way to bring a little joy to your dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love bite after warm, melty bite!

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