cheesy hamburger macaroni recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cheesy hamburger macaroni recipe

I’ve been making cheesy hamburger macaroni for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a comforting dish that never fails to put a smile on my kids’ faces. The recipe is simple, yet packed with flavor, and it’s easy to customize to suit our family’s tastes.

I love how the pasta is smothered in a rich, creamy sauce with ground beef and melted cheddar cheese – it’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. My kids always ask for seconds (and sometimes thirds!) , and I’m happy to oblige because it’s just so easy to make.

Whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe never disappoints. I’ve even made it for potlucks and family gatherings, and everyone always raves about it. The best part?

It’s relatively healthy compared to other comfort foods – the pasta provides carbs, the ground beef gives us protein, and the cheese adds some extra calories but is still relatively balanced. My husband loves it too, and he’s not usually a big pasta fan! I’ve made this recipe so many times that I’ve lost count, but I still get excited every time I make it because it never gets old.

It’s one of those recipes that just feels like home.

Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni

4.5 from 1935 votes

A comforting one-pot dish combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich cheese sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights and will satisfy the whole family.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Meat

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups elbow macaroni
3 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for 2 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3Stir in the elbow macaroni, beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 12 to 15 minutes.
5While the macaroni cooks, prepare the cheese sauce.
6In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
7Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
8Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 2 to 3 minutes.
9Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
10Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and beef mixture, stirring well to combine.
11Let it sit for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Watch Video Of How Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Works

This cheesy hamburger macaroni recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it is simple, affordable, and always a hit. It works for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you need a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

I hope you give it a try and see how easy it is to make from scratch. For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, add a little milk or water to restore the creaminess and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal.

It is a versatile dish that my family loves, and I am sure yours will too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta shape like elbows, shells, or rotini. Just cook it according to the package directions until al dente before adding it to the meat sauce.

2. What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar cheese gives the best flavor, but you can also use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness. Pre-shredded cheese works, but freshly shredded melts more smoothly.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

4. How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, and low fat cheese. You can also add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition.

5. Can I freeze cheesy hamburger macaroni?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the oven.

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