Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe

Introduction

This homemade cheeseburger macaroni is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines tender ground beef with creamy pasta. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ cup finely diced onion (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
• 2 cups milk
• 1 ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ¾ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Set this spice mixture aside.
2. Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, then drain any excess fat.
3. Step 3: Stir in the milk, chicken broth, and uncooked elbow macaroni with the beef. Mix the cornstarch and spice mixture into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Step 4: Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Cover the skillet and cook for 9 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. Add a little more broth or water if the mixture gets too thick.
5. Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly. Serve the cheeseburger macaroni hot for a satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the spice mix.
• Swap sharp cheddar for a milder cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack to change the flavor profile.
• Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the liquid slightly or add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water before cooking.

Storage

Store leftover cheeseburger macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if it has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking time as needed since different pasta shapes may cook faster or slower.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze cheeseburger macaroni, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and use within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.