Ultimate Cheeseburger Macaroni
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the ease of macaroni and cheese. It's a quick, satisfying, and guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup butter
- Optional toppings: Pickles, chopped
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, shredded
- Optional toppings: Tomato, diced
- Optional toppings: Mustard
- Optional toppings: Ketchup
- Optional toppings: Bacon bits
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the macaroni and set aside without rinsing.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Add the butter and milk to the skillet. Stir until the butter is melted and the milk is warmed through.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the cheese sauce and beef mixture.
- Stir well to combine, ensuring that all the macaroni is coated in the cheesy sauce.
- Serve immediately, topped with your favorite cheeseburger toppings.
Notes
Don't overcook the macaroni; al dente is key. Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting. Adjust seasoning to your liking. Get creative with cheese blends like Monterey Jack or pepper jack. Add finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cheeseburger Macaroni freezes well; let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.