Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires only four simple, budget-friendly ingredients.
- Made in one pot for minimal cleanup.
- Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Creamy and flavorful, with a nostalgic cheeseburger twist.
- Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or variations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
Directions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the beef broth to the pot and bring it to a boil.
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Topping Ideas: Garnish with crumbled bacon, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Pasta Alternatives: Substitute elbow macaroni with rotini, penne, or shell pasta.
- Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella or pepper jack for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens too much.
- Freezing: This soup is best enjoyed fresh, as the pasta may become mushy when frozen and reheated.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and works just as well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth is gluten-free.
3. What’s the best cheese for this soup?
Cheddar is classic, but you can use any melting cheese, such as Colby or Monterey Jack.
4. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding diced tomatoes, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
5. How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the pasta may absorb more liquid as it sits. Add extra broth when reheating.
7. What can I serve with this soup?
Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad.
8. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Make sure to add the cheese gradually over low heat, stirring constantly for a smooth result.
9. Can I use evaporated milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, evaporated milk will make the soup even creamier.
10. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients, but make sure your pot is large enough to handle the increased volume.
Conclusion
This 4-Ingredient One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re short on time or just craving a bowl of creamy goodness, this recipe delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Enjoy it as-is or customize it to suit your taste!
4-Ingredient One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Quick, creamy, and perfect for busy weeknights, this 4-Ingredient One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup combines ground beef, cheddar cheese, and macaroni for a comforting, family-friendly meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the beef broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until tender.
- Reduce heat to low, add milk and shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils, and use vegetable broth.
- For extra spice, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Customize with toppings like bacon crumbles, green onions, or sour cream.
- Substitute elbow macaroni with rotini, penne, or shells for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American