Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- If using, stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Add Broth and Macaroni
- Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and reduce the heat to medium.
- Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Stir in the Cheese
- Lower the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
Step 4: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like pickles, bacon, or extra cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Just four main ingredients and minimal prep.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean!
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the cheeseburger-inspired flavors.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the creamiest results. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
- Thicker Soup: Add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced tomatoes or a handful of spinach for extra nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
- Freeze: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture of the macaroni may soften when thawed.
This 4-Ingredient One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup is comfort food at its finest—quick, delicious, and sure to satisfy every craving! 🍔🧀✨ Enjoy!