Cheeseburger Macaroni
- Total Time: 30min
- Yield: 4-6servings
Description
This Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy elbow macaroni for a comforting and delicious meal. Easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a one-pot dish that everyone in the family will love. Ground beef, pasta, and a cheesy sauce come together quickly for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
- Stir in beef broth, milk, ketchup, and mustard. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the elbow macaroni and stir to combine. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in shredded cheddar cheese, and cook until melted into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy your cheeseburger macaroni!
Notes
- For a veggie version, add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms.
- For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- To make the sauce creamier, add more milk or cream.
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its familiar flavors and easy preparation. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with seasoned ground beef and tender pasta makes for a quick and hearty meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something filling and delicious without a lot of hassle. Plus, you can make it all in one pot, which means fewer dishes to clean!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Stir in the beef broth, milk, ketchup, and mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade cheeseburger macaroni!
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Veggie Version: Add in some finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Twist: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
- Creamier Sauce: Add a bit more milk or some cream for an even creamier consistency.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the macaroni on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta, like penne or rotini.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add a bit of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for some heat.
3. Can I make Cheeseburger Macaroni ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat when ready to serve.
4. Can I freeze Cheeseburger Macaroni?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.
5. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish. It will still taste delicious!
6. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
7. What can I serve with Cheeseburger Macaroni?
Serve with a simple green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or use less milk to start with.
9. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly and give you a creamier sauce.
10. Can I add more cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese to make the sauce even cheesier.
Conclusion
This Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe is an easy, quick, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting dish. With the flavors of a cheeseburger and the richness of a creamy pasta dish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you make it as is or experiment with different variations, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!
