Hey, Kitchies!
What’s better than a cheeseburger and macaroni? Combining the two into one warm, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy dish! Cheeseburger Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food, delivering all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a bowl. It’s a weeknight winner, ready in under 30 minutes and made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
The first time I made this dish, it was a nostalgic throwback to my childhood. The savory ground beef, the tender pasta, and the creamy, gooey cheese brought back so many memories. But what makes this recipe extra special is how customizable it is—add some veggies, kick up the spice, or swap out the cheese to make it your own.
Whether you’re cooking for kids, teens, or a hungry crew of adults, this one-pot wonder will have everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, this recipe will quickly earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
Why This Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe Will Be Your Go-To
- Quick and Easy: On the table in under 30 minutes.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less mess, more convenience.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Macaroni
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Customize the Flavors: Add diced jalapeños, Worcestershire sauce, or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
- Cheese: Try pepper jack, Swiss, or a blend for different flavors.
- Veggies: Stir in peas, diced bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrients.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use whole-grain pasta or chickpea-based pasta.
- Substitute ground beef with leaner options like ground turkey.
- Reduce the cheese or use a low-fat variety.
Closing
And there you have it—Cheeseburger Macaroni that’s creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving some classic comfort food. Serve it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Let us know how your dish turned out and what creative twists you added. Enjoy!
Categories: Dinner, Comfort Food, One-Pot Recipes
Tags: Cheeseburger, Pasta, One-Pot Meals, Family-Friendly, Quick Recipes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore its creaminess.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q: What can I serve with cheeseburger macaroni?
A: A simple side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread are great options.
Cheeseburger Macaroni: A One-Pot Family Favorite
Description
What’s better than a cheeseburger and macaroni? Combining the two into one warm, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy dish!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
1 pound lean ground beef
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 pinch salt, to taste
1 pinch black pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken broth
8 ounce elbow pasta, (uncooked)
2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
16 ounce diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add garlic and cook until golden brown and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add ground beef to skillet and cook and crumble until browned, about 5-8 minutes. If necessary, drain any excess grease from the pan.
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Add Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper to ground beef, then quickly stir to coat the ground beef.
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Pour in chicken broth and elbow pasta to skillet, then stir. Bring mixture to a boil, cover, and allow to cook until pasta is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
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Remove saucepan from heat. Lift lid and add cheddar cheese and diced tomatoes, then stir to mix. Return lid and let cheeseburger macaroni sit for 2-4 minutes or until cheese has melted.
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Serve cheeseburger macaroni immediately with chopped parsley as garnish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 436
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g