The Best Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup – A Cozy, Cheesy One-Pot Meal Your Family Will Love
There’s something magical about a cozy bowl of soup, especially when it tastes like your favorite cheeseburger and is packed with tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese. If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that warms you up from the inside out, this cheeseburger macaroni soup is it.
Imagine all the best parts of a classic cheeseburger, juicy beef, gooey cheese, and just the right blend of seasonings, swirled into a creamy, hearty soup that comes together in one pot. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight, a lazy Sunday, or you just need a soul-soothing dinner that your whole family will devour, this recipe is a winner.
Even better? It’s quick, budget-friendly, and made with pantry staples you probably already have on hand. From picky eaters to grown-up foodies, everyone loves this cheesy hamburger macaroni soup, and you’re about to see why.
Table of Contents
💛 Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
This isn’t just another soup recipe, it’s the ultimate one-pot comfort meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Here’s why this cheeseburger macaroni soup is about to become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation:
✅ One-Pot Wonder
No need to juggle multiple pans, this soup comes together in one pot, meaning less mess and easy cleanup. Perfect for busy nights when you just want to get dinner on the table fast.
✅ Cozy, Creamy, and Cheesy
It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket. This creamy cheeseburger soup has rich beefy flavor, melty cheese in every bite, and tender pasta that soaks up all that delicious goodness.
✅ Family-Friendly Favorite
Picky eaters? No problem. This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, think of it as a hug in a bowl that tastes like a cheeseburger and mac and cheese had a delicious baby.
✅ Customizable & Pantry-Friendly
Have ground turkey instead of beef? Only have elbow macaroni or shells? No worries. This easy hamburger macaroni soup is super flexible and still turns out delicious every time.
✅ Budget-Friendly & Meal-Prep Approved
This recipe comes together using everyday, budget-friendly ingredients that are probably already in your pantry or fridge. Plus, it stores well for leftovers or meal prep, just reheat and enjoy.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
This cheeseburger macaroni soup is made with simple, accessible ingredients, but don’t let that fool you. The flavor is anything but basic. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy, cheesy, one-pot masterpiece:
🥩 Ground Beef (1 lb)
The classic choice for that rich, beefy cheeseburger flavor. For a lighter option, feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
🧅 Onion (1 medium, diced)
Adds savory depth and a touch of sweetness as it cooks down.
🧄 Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Because what’s a good soup without garlic? Fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
🍅 Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz)
Gives the broth a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Crushed tomatoes work too if you prefer a smoother base.
🥣 Beef Broth (4 cups)
The foundation of your soup. Use low-sodium broth if you want more control over the salt level.
🧂 Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons)
Deepens the tomato flavor and gives the soup a slightly thicker, more luxurious consistency.
🧀 Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded)
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives you that classic cheeseburger taste. Feel free to blend with Monterey Jack or use Velveeta for extra creaminess.
🥛 Milk or Half-and-Half (1 cup)
Adds creaminess. Whole milk or half-and-half give the best flavor, but you can sub in heavy cream or even a dairy-free alternative if needed.
🍝 Macaroni (1½ cups, uncooked)
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to use shells, rotini, or any short pasta. Just avoid overcooking, it will keep cooking in the hot soup!
🧂 Seasonings:
- Salt & Black Pepper – Classic staples to taste
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds that signature umami, burger-like richness
- Paprika or Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – For warmth and a subtle smoky kick
- Dried Basil or Italian Seasoning (optional) – For added herb flavor
👩🍳 How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Making this cheeseburger macaroni soup is as easy as browning some beef and tossing everything into one pot. Here’s how to bring this cozy, cheesy comfort dish to life, no stress, no fancy tools, just delicious simplicity.
🔥 Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef to the pot and sauté for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks until it’s fully browned. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Let the beef get a little crispy around the edges.
🧅 Step 2: Add Onion, Garlic & Seasonings
After the beef is nicely browned, stir in the chopped onion and garlic.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion turns soft and slightly see-through.
Season with:
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
- Optional: ½ tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
🍅 Step 3: Stir in Tomato Paste & Tomatoes
Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and stir to coat the beef and onions. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Then pour in:
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Allow the mixture to gently simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors can meld together.
🥣 Step 4: Add Broth and Bring to a Boil
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and give everything a good stir. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
🍝 Step 5: Add Pasta and Simmer
Add 1½ cups of uncooked elbow macaroni (or your preferred short pasta). Stir to distribute evenly.
Reduce heat to medium and let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
🧀 Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Milk
When the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to a low setting. Stir in:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
Mix gently until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and dreamy. If the soup is too thick, add a splash more broth or milk to thin it to your liking.
🍽️ Step 7: Taste and Serve
Taste the soup one last time and tweak the seasonings to your preference. Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Top with extra shredded cheese, chopped pickles, or green onions for a fun cheeseburger-style twist!
👌 Optional Garnishes
- Chopped dill pickles (surprisingly amazing!)
- Crushed tortilla chips or croutons
- A drizzle of ketchup or mustard (yep, it works!)
👨🍳Expert Tips for Maximum Flavor
Want to make your cheeseburger macaroni soup taste like something straight out of a cozy diner or Grandma’s kitchen? These pro tips will help you level up the flavor without complicating the process.
🔥 1. Let the Beef Brown, Not Just Cook
Don’t rush this step! Let the ground beef sit undisturbed for a minute or two to develop a golden crust. That caramelization brings out a deep, meaty flavor—just like a seared burger.
🌶️ 2. Toast Your Spices
Add your paprika, black pepper, and any herbs before adding liquids. Let them toast for 30–60 seconds in the pan with the beef and onions to wake up the flavors and release their oils.
🧀 3. Use Sharp Cheddar (or a Blend)
Mild cheese will melt, but sharp cheddar adds depth and that tangy, signature cheeseburger bite. Try mixing in a little smoked gouda or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
🧂 4. Don’t Skip the Worcestershire
This small but mighty ingredient adds savory depth, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of umami that makes the soup really taste like a cheeseburger.
🍔 5. Finish with Burger-Inspired Toppings
Get creative! Add diced pickles, green onions, or a light swirl of ketchup and mustard on top. These finishing touches give your bowl that classic cheeseburger flair—fun, nostalgic, and totally customizable.
🥛 6. Add Dairy Last
Avoid curdling by stirring in the milk and cheese off the heat or on low. Heating dairy too quickly can lead to grainy or separated soup. Gentle is key.
💧 7. Adjust Consistency to Your Liking
Prefer it thicker? Let it simmer uncovered a bit longer or add a handful of extra cheese. Want it soupier? Stir in a splash of broth or milk until it hits your sweet spot.
🔄 Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this cheeseburger macaroni soup is how flexible it is. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or just using what’s in the pantry, here are easy ways to customize the recipe without sacrificing flavor.
🥬 Vegetarian Version
Skip the meat and try:
- Plant-based ground “beef” (like Beyond Meat or Impossible)
- Lentils or finely chopped mushrooms as a hearty, natural sub
Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and the rest of the process stays the same. It still comes out rich, creamy, and super satisfying.
🌾 Gluten-Free Option
- Swap the regular macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta (just watch cook time, some gluten-free pastas cook quicker).
- Double-check that your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free, as some brands sneak in wheat.
🧀 Dairy-Free / Vegan Adaptation
- Use dairy-free cheese (like a cheddar-style vegan melt)
- Sub unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for the creaminess
- Choose a vegan Worcestershire sauce (many traditional ones contain anchovies)
It won’t be quite the same as the original, but it still hits those cheesy, savory, comfort-food vibes.
🌶️ Spice It Up
Add heat with:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
- A diced jalapeño sautéed with the onions
- A swirl of hot sauce just before serving
🍲 Make It Chunkier
If you want more texture, try tossing in:
- Chopped carrots or celery with the onions
- Corn kernels or peas toward the end of cooking
- Diced potatoes, pre-cooked or parboiled, for a heartier twist
🧂 Switch Up the Cheese
While sharp cheddar is a timeless choice, you can switch things up by trying:
- Monterey Jack (for a creamier melt)
- Pepper Jack (for a little kick)
- Smoked gouda (for a more elevated twist)
🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
One of the best parts about this cheeseburger macaroni soup, besides how delicious it is, is that it stores and reheats like a champ. Whether you’re making it ahead for meal prep or saving leftovers, here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful.
🧺 Storing Leftovers (Fridge)
- Let the soup cool completely before storing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to four days.
- The pasta may continue to absorb some of the broth, so don’t worry if it thickens a bit, that’s normal (and still delicious).
Pro Tip: Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to bring it back to your desired consistency.
❄️ Freezing Tips
While you can freeze this soup, the texture of the pasta may change slightly after thawing. Here’s how to get the best results:
- For best texture, freeze before adding the pasta and dairy (cheese + milk). You can add those when reheating for a fresher, creamier finish.
- Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (leave a little room for expansion).
- Mark the container with the date and keep it in the freezer for up to three months.
Want to freeze fully cooked soup with pasta? It’s totally fine, just expect a softer texture when reheated.
🔁 Reheating Instructions
🥄 On the Stove:
- Place soup in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir frequently, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen if it’s thickened.
- Heat gently until warmed through (avoid boiling after adding dairy).
🔥 In the Microwave:
- Heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each.
- Cover loosely to prevent splatters.
- Add liquid as needed to thin it out.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup FAQ
Can I use Velveeta instead of shredded cheese?
Absolutely! Velveeta melts super smoothly and gives the soup a rich, creamy texture, just like classic cheeseburger mac. You can use it alone or blend it with sharp cheddar for a balance of melty texture and bold flavor.
What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is the go-to, but small shells, rotini, or ditalini also work well. Any short pasta that holds onto sauce is a great choice.
If you’re using gluten-free pasta, cook it separately and stir it in just before serving to avoid mushiness.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make cheeseburger macaroni soup in a slow cooker, brown the beef, onions, and garlic first on the stovetop (this adds depth). Then transfer to the slow cooker with the broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, seasonings, and Worcestershire sauce.
Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Add the pasta, cheese, and milk during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is meal prep friendly! You can make it up to 3–4 days ahead and store it in the fridge. For best results, consider cooking the pasta separately and storing it in a separate container, then combining just before reheating to maintain texture.
How do I thicken the soup?
If your soup is too thin, here are a few quick fixes:
Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes
Stir in a handful of extra cheese
Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water)
Want it even creamier? Swap the milk for half-and-half or heavy cream.
Can I make this soup without pasta?
Yes! If you’re avoiding pasta, you can substitute with:
Riced cauliflower (added in the last 5 minutes of cooking)
Chopped potatoes (diced small and pre-boiled or added early to cook through)
Or just leave it out and enjoy a creamy cheeseburger soup with all the flavor and none of the carbs.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- 1 Wooden spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef Lean 80/20 works well
- 1 medium Onion Diced
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 can 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes Undrained
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 4 cups Beef Broth Low sodium preferred
- 1.5 cups Elbow Macaroni Uncooked
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Shredded sharp preferred
- 1 cup Milk or Half-and-Half For creaminess
- 1 tsp Paprika Or smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper To taste
- 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add Aromatics & Spices
- Stir in diced onion and garlic; cook for 3–4 minutes. Add tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Build the Base
- Add diced tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine, then pour in beef broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the Pasta
- Stir in uncooked macaroni. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, until pasta is tender.
- Add Dairy & Cheese
- Lower heat to low and stir in milk and shredded cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Adjust & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions or diced pickles if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, swap ground beef for ground turkey.
- To freeze, leave out pasta and dairy and add those when reheating.
- Try it with different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or gouda for a twist!
🥰 Final Thoughts on Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and downright comforting, this cheeseburger macaroni soup delivers every time. It’s rich and savory, loaded with ground beef and tender pasta, and it brings all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger; right into your soup bowl.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or just looking for your next cozy go-to dinner, this one-pot wonder checks all the boxes: easy, affordable, customizable, and absolutely delicious.
Now it’s your turn; grab a spoon, cozy up, and dig in!
🍲 Craving More Cozy, Cheesy Comfort Food?
If you loved this cheeseburger macaroni soup, don’t stop here! Check out some of our most popular, comforting dishes your family will love just as much:
- 🧀 Mueller Macaroni and Cheese Recipe – A creamy, classic baked mac that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- 🧀 Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese – Restaurant-style mac and cheese right at home.
- 🌴 Ono Hawaiian BBQ Macaroni Salad – A chilled, tangy twist that pairs perfectly with grilled dishes.
- 🍝 Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy, garlicky, and totally irresistible.
- 🌮 Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta – Taco night meets pasta night in this one-pan wonder.
- 🍲 Keto Chicken Taco Soup – A low-carb soup packed with bold flavor and creamy goodness.
- 🥘 Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup – Another cozy classic that’s perfect for slow cooking season.
