Cheeseburger Macaroni
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this cheeseburger macaroni recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta meets tender ground beef, making it a beloved dish for both kids and adults. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp ketchup
– 1 tbsp mustard
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. This is a satisfying meal for one person, offering a well-rounded combination of nutrients.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef.
4. Pour in the milk and beef broth; stir to combine.
5. Add ketchup, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
6. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Serve hot garnished with additional cheese if desired.
10. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting meal!
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish. You can also use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version, and different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Cheeseburger macaroni pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside pickles or coleslaw for a delightful crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cheeseburger macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
– Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the overall flavor.
– Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
– Ensure the beef is well-drained to avoid excess grease.
– Stir continuously when adding cheese to prevent clumping.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for extra kick.
– For a veggie boost, add chopped bell peppers or spinach.
– Make it a one-pot meal by cooking everything in the same skillet.
– Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
FAQs
Can I make cheeseburger macaroni ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Its cheesy flavor and pasta format make it a favorite among kids.
Can I use plant-based meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Adding herbs like parsley or spices such as cayenne can enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
How can I adjust the creaminess?
You can adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of cheese and milk to your preference.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger macaroni is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a comforting pasta format. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s perfect for any family dinner. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness in every bite!
Cheeseburger Macaroni
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef.
- Pour in the milk and beef broth; stir to combine.
- Add ketchup, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot garnished with additional cheese if desired.
