One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup (No Velveeta)

This hearty, One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup (No Velveeta) dish brings together the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy macaroni. Made with real cheese for a wholesome touch, it’s rich, comforting, and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s ready in just 40 minutes with minimal cleanup. A family-friendly meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s made in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.

The dish combines familiar, comforting flavors that everyone will love.

It’s versatile—customize it with your favorite add-ins or garnishes.

No Velveeta! This recipe uses real cheese for a wholesome, creamy texture.

Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s ideal for quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb. ground beef (lean or substitute with ground turkey)

1 medium onion, diced

1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

2 cups elbow macaroni (or small pasta shapes)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)

1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)

Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1 cup frozen peas or carrots

Fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish

Directions

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened.

Season with salt and pepper, and drain any excess fat.

Add Tomatoes & Broth:

Stir in the diced tomatoes.

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Cook the Macaroni:

Add the elbow macaroni to the pot.

Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Add Cheese & Milk:

Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in the milk.

Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Season & Serve:

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Loaded Cheeseburger Soup: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Kid-Friendly: Stir in a small amount of ketchup or mustard for a more “classic cheeseburger” flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup if needed.

Related Recipes:

• One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
• Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta
• Hearty Cheeseburger Casserole

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze it! However, the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating. Freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Shredded cheddar is ideal for a classic cheeseburger flavor, but you can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for variation.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any small pasta shape, like shells or ditalini, will work well. Adjust the cooking time if using a different shape.

How do I make this soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry, then stir it into the soup and simmer until it thickens.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a great option for meal prep. Just store individual portions in airtight containers, and reheat as needed throughout the week.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a comforting, satisfying dish that combines the best of two comfort food classics. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an easy weeknight favorite that’s sure to please the whole family. Try it tonight and enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors of this hearty meal.

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