Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Introduction
Cheeseburger macaroni is a comforting, all-in-one skillet meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and melted sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy sauce. This easy recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup finely diced onion (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
- 2 cups milk
- 1 ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ¾ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Set this spice mixture aside.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, then drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Pour in the milk, chicken broth, and uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir in the prepared cornstarch and spice mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Step 4: Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Cover the skillet and cook for 9 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. If the mixture gets too thick, add a little more broth or water as needed.
- Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try using half-and-half instead of milk or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking.
- Swap sharp cheddar for a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a different taste and texture.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion for extra veggies and flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly or add a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water before cooking.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne will work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on the pasta’s package instructions.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
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Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal combining ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and sharp cheddar cheese in a flavorful sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 ¾ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ cup finely diced onion (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
Liquids
- 1 ¼ cup chicken broth
Pasta
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
Spices and Thickener
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, granulated sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Set this mixture aside to incorporate later.
- Brown the Ground Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and finely diced onion (or onion powder). Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the milk and chicken broth into the skillet with the beef. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir in the previously prepared cornstarch and spice mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 9 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the mixture becomes too thick or the pasta needs more liquid, add more chicken broth or water as necessary until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and evenly distributed, creating a creamy sauce that coats the macaroni and beef. Serve hot immediately for best taste.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- You can adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more garlic powder or paprika for a stronger flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase cornstarch slightly; for a creamier texture, add a splash more milk.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- To add vegetables, consider stirring in cooked peas, corn, or diced tomatoes during the simmering step.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheeseburger macaroni, homemade cheeseburger pasta, easy weeknight dinner, ground beef pasta, cheesy macaroni
