If comfort food had a superstar, the Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe would take the spotlight every time. Imagine the juicy, savory goodness of a cheeseburger melded seamlessly with tender macaroni, all wrapped up in a luscious, cheesy sauce that warms you from the inside out. This dish delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction, making it an instant classic for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike. Whether you’re craving something familiar with a twist or want a hearty meal that everyone will love, this recipe checks all the boxes and then some.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe is right in its ingredients: simple, wholesome staples that easily come together to create a dish bursting with flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich, lean ground beef that adds savory depth, to the sharp cheddar cheese that brings creamy, melty magic. The combination of tomato paste, ketchup, and Dijon mustard creates a tangy, slightly sweet base sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth): Provides the perfect flavorful liquid base for cooking the macaroni and blending the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and complexity to the sauce.
- â…“ cup ketchup: Gives a hint of sweetness and classic burger flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato richness for a hearty sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a mellow, savory punch without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil: Used for browning the beef and onions, adding richness.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The star protein providing savory goodness and satisfying texture.
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth, softening as it cooks with the meat.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Gives a subtle kick to wake up your taste buds.
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni: The pasta foundation that absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish for creamy, gooey cheesiness.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and color contrast.
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
Start by whisking together your chicken broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. This flavorful blend sets the stage for the rich, tangy sauce that will soak into the macaroni later. Setting it aside gives you everything ready to pour in when the moment is right.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced sweet onion, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. You’re aiming for the onions to become soft and the beef to brown nicely, about 3 minutes. Toss in the crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat surprise, then drain off any excess grease. This step builds a flavorful foundation with caramelized notes and a little spice.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Beef
Give your sauce mixture another quick stir before pouring it into the skillet with the browned beef and onions. Bring everything to a gentle boil; this warms the sauce and melds the flavors beautifully. Then, add in the uncooked elbow macaroni, letting the pasta begin absorbing all the goodness.
Step 4: Simmer Until Macaroni is Tender
Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let the macaroni cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until it’s tender but still holds a slight bite. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, and enjoy the smell of the sauce thickening and flavors melding together.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese and Serve
Once the macaroni reaches that perfect tender texture, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Stir just until the cheese melts into a creamy blanket coating every bit of pasta and beef. Serve the dish piping hot and, if you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich cheeseburger flavor.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish is delightful on its own, a few simple garnishes can elevate it. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the richness. For an extra cheesy kick, a dash of shredded cheddar or even a bit of grated Parmesan on top adds satisfying texture and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh sides. Think a garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta, or crunchy roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add some texture and nutrition. Soft dinner rolls or warm garlic bread also complement the meal perfectly, helping sop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers for a cute, shareable presentation. You can also layer it in a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly golden brown for a cozy, crowd-pleasing bake. Kids especially love the playful presentation options!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe (not that it usually lasts long!), transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors even deepen a bit overnight. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, so it warms evenly and retains its creamy texture without becoming watery.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the sauce and revive its creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible, as this method sometimes dries out the dish or causes uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta instead of macaroni?
Absolutely! While macaroni is classic, other short pasta like shells, rotini, or penne work wonderfully. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape and size.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will keep the flavor balanced.
How spicy is the crushed red pepper flakes amount?
The ¼ teaspoon adds just a gentle warmth that elevates the dish without overwhelming it. Feel free to reduce or omit it if you’re sensitive to spice or want to keep it kid-friendly.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Of course! Pre-shredded cheddar cheese works fine and saves time, but fresh shredded cheese often melts better and creates a creamier texture.
What’s the best way to prevent pasta from sticking?
Make sure to stir the macaroni occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking, and keep the heat at medium rather than high. Also, be sure the sauce has enough liquid to allow the pasta to cook evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe is an absolute gem for anyone who loves comfort food with a satisfying twist. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish promises to delight every bite. Give it a whirl and make it your next go-to meal—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe is a comforting one-pan meal that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with hearty macaroni pasta. It’s made with lean ground beef, a tangy tomato-based sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner, this dish cooks in just about 25 minutes and yields six generous servings.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- â…“ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Main Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt until well combined. Set this sauce mixture aside for later use.
- Brown the Meat and Onions: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced sweet onion. Cook while breaking up the beef with a spoon until the beef is fully cooked and the onions have softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes. Drain off any excess grease from the pan, then return the skillet to heat.
- Add Broth Mixture and Macaroni: Give the prepared broth mixture a quick stir and pour it into the skillet containing the meat mixture. Bring the liquid to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked macaroni pasta to the skillet.
- Simmer the Pasta: Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Allow the macaroni to cook for 10 to 12 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the pan’s bottom.
- Finish with Cheese: When the pasta is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts completely, which should take about 1 minute. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Using low-sodium broth allows better control of the dish’s saltiness.
- Lean ground beef keeps the dish lower in fat while maintaining flavor.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with another small pasta shape like shells or penne.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste depending on your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, consider using a sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
