ground beef macaroni cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ground beef macaroni cheese recipe

I’m so glad you’re here today to talk about one of my family’s favorite recipes – ground beef macaroni cheese. This classic comfort food dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. My kids love helping me in the kitchen to make this recipe, and they always get excited when they see the big ol’ pot of mac and cheese on the table.

It’s just one of those dishes that never fails to put a smile on their faces. As for me, I love how this recipe brings back memories of my own childhood. My mom used to make it for me all the time when I was growing up, and it’s a big part of why I love cooking so much. There’s something so satisfying about seeing the look on someone’s face when they take their first bite of this creamy, cheesy goodness.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – ‘mac and cheese is just for kids.’ But trust me, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a good comfort food fix. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make.

Just brown some ground beef, cook up some pasta, mix it with cheese sauce and voila! You’ve got yourself a delicious meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Want to add some veggies in there?

Go ahead! Want to use different types of cheese? You do you! The beauty of macaroni cheese is that it’s really just a base recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes.

Ground Beef Macaroni Cheese

4.6 from 1701 votes

A hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef with creamy macaroni cheese. Perfect for a family dinner.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

250g ground beef
200g macaroni pasta
200g shredded cheddar cheese
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup milk
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2Add chopped onion and minced garlic.
3Cook until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4Add ground beef to the pan.
5Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
6Drain excess fat.
7While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
8Add macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
9Drain and set aside.
10In a separate bowl, mix flour with 1/4 cup of milk until smooth.
Set aside.
11In the same pan with the ground beef, pour in beef broth and milk and bring to a simmer.
12Stir in the flour mixture until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
13Stir in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
14Season with salt and pepper to taste.
15If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

🔧Equipment

Large pan
Pot
Colander
Wooden spoon
Cheese grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 35g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

This ground beef macaroni cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It is easy to prepare, delicious, and can feed a large group of people.

It is also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little bit of milk to the dish to help restore its creamy texture.

You can also serve this dish with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This recipe has been a family favorite for generations and will continue to be a staple in my home for many years to come.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Macaroni Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

For this recipe, I like to use a combination of macaroni and elbow noodles. You can also use other types of pasta if you prefer – just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I use lean ground beef?

Yes, you can definitely use lean ground beef in this recipe if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may affect the flavor slightly.

Q: How long does this recipe take to make?

This recipe should take around 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook. However, you can also make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later.

Q: Can I add other ingredients besides ground beef?

Yes, you can definitely add other ingredients besides ground beef to make this recipe more interesting. Some ideas might include diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians as it contains ground beef.

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