mac and cheese with hamburger recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
mac and cheese with hamburger recipe
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The Best mac and cheese with hamburger recipe

I’ve been making mac and cheese with hamburger for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. This comfort food classic is a staple in many American households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and can be tailored to suit any taste.

The original recipe hails from the United States, where it was popularized in the mid-20th century as a convenient and satisfying meal for families. Over time, I’ve experimented with various twists on the classic recipe, but the core elements remain the same: creamy pasta, savory beef, and a crunchy topping that adds texture to each bite.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how this dish can be easily adapted to suit our schedules – whether we’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion treat. My kids adore it when I add some hidden veggies to the mix, like steamed broccoli or carrots.

It’s amazing how such a simple combination of ingredients can evoke memories of childhood and warmth of home. As I often joke with my friends, this recipe never fails to put a smile on anyone’s face – it’s the perfect comfort food that never goes out of style.

Whether you’re serving it up at home or taking it to potlucks and family gatherings, mac and cheese with hamburger is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – this dish reheats beautifully and can be easily stored in the fridge for up to three days.

The secret lies in its versatility: you can make individual servings or large batches for feeding a crowd. With its comforting blend of flavors and textures, this beloved recipe has earned its place in my heart (and my family’s tummies) forever.

Mac and Cheese with Hamburger

Mac and Cheese with Hamburger

4.9 from 741 votes

A hearty and comforting dish that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with seasoned ground beef. This one-pot meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and is sure to satisfy the whole family.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Meat

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain in a colander and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6 minutes.
6Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for 2 minutes until the onion is translucent.
7Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
8In the same large pot used for pasta, melt the butter over medium heat.
9Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
10Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
11Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
12Add the paprika and cayenne pepper if using, and mix well.
13The sauce should be creamy and slightly thick.
14Add the cooked macaroni and the beef mixture to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated.
15Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
16In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are moistened.
17Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
18Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
19Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 32g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese. You can also add cooked bacon bits or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Mac and Cheese with Hamburger Works

As you can tell by now, this mac and cheese with hamburger recipe is more than just a tasty meal – it’s an experience that brings people together. When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, leftover macaroni lasts up to three days; simply reheat until hot throughout before serving again.

For those occasions when you want something extra special, consider topping your macaroni with crispy breadcrumbs or chopped scallions – presentation matters! Whether you’re hosting dinner parties or casual gatherings with friends, serving this classic comfort food always makes everyone feel welcome.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese with Hamburger

Q: What type of pasta is best for mac and cheese?

I prefer using elbow macaroni or shells for this recipe – they hold onto the creamy sauce nicely.

Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?

Sure! Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer – just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Q: How do I ensure my mac and cheese doesn’t become too dry?

Avoid overcooking your pasta; aim for al dente perfection.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Bake your mac and cheese until it’s almost done, then freeze individual portions for later use.

Q: What kind of cheese should I use?

I recommend a mix of cheddar and parmesan for their sharpness and creaminess.

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