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Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe

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4 from 23 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Description

Cheeseburger Macaroni is a comforting skillet meal that combines seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese in a creamy tomato-based sauce. This easy homemade dinner delivers all the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger in a hearty, cheesy pasta dish, perfect for quick family weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Meat and Aromatics

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Sauces

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Dry Ingredients & Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper, to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)

Pasta & Cheese

  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Additional

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and brown beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  2. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  3. Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, milk, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and paprika. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
  4. Add macaroni and simmer: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Add cheese and finish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for color and freshness. Serve warm immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter option.
  • Add diced pickles, mushrooms, bacon, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
  • Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, American, or a cheddar blend.
  • For a spicy kick, add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or use Pepper Jack cheese.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
  • This dish can be frozen, but pasta texture may soften after thawing.
  • Serve with green salad, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or pickles as sides.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://justsosweet.com/cheeseburger-macaroni-recipe/