There is something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of cheeseburger macaroni, and this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe nails it perfectly. It’s a delightful fusion of classic cheeseburger flavors and tender macaroni pasta, all cooked together in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s packed with savory goodness. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress your family with an easy yet satisfying meal, this recipe balances cheesy, meaty, and tangy notes in every bite. You’ll love how effortlessly the ingredients come together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and the entire process feel like a joy rather than a chore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen to contribute to a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, from the savory beef to the tangy tomato elements, and the comforting gooey cheese that makes every forkful so special.
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth): The flavorful base that helps cook the pasta and brings depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness and complexity to the sauce that enhances the cheeseburger taste.
- â…“ cup ketchup: For that classic sweet and tangy ketchup flavor that pairs perfectly with ground beef.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives the sauce a rich tomato foundation and helps thicken it beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A simple way to infuse the dish with savory warmth and balance the acidity.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the layers of flavor.
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil: Used to brown the beef and soften the onions, adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty protein star of the dish, providing rich, meaty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and texture contrast when cooked down.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: A gentle hint of heat that awakens the flavors without overpowering the dish.
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the sauce and mix wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The melty, cheesy finish that makes this meal irresistible.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh burst of color and a pop of herbaceous brightness to the finished dish.
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Make the Flavorful Sauce
Start by whisking together the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. This simple mixture is the magic behind the sauce, combining tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that perfectly mimic the classic cheeseburger vibe. Setting it aside once combined lets you focus on the next step.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced sweet onion, breaking apart the meat as it cooks. You’ll know it’s ready when the onions have softened and the beef is thoroughly browned, about three minutes. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, then drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from getting too heavy.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Pasta
Give your sauce mixture a quick stir once more, then pour it into the skillet with the cooked beef and onions. Bring this combination to a boil, and immediately add the uncooked macaroni. This step ensures your pasta soaks up the sauce flavors as it cooks.
Step 4: Simmer Until Perfectly Tender
Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let the macaroni simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should become tender and soak up all that delicious sauce, creating a wonderfully creamy texture that’s sure to satisfy.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Once the macaroni is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Stir gently until the cheese melts into the sauce, forming that rich, indulgent finish we all crave. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired, for a delightful pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Garnishes
While this cheeseburger macaroni recipe is delicious on its own, garnishing it with a sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley adds an inviting brightness and a touch of elegance. For an extra layer of indulgence, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce or a spoonful of sour cream to tailor it perfectly to your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad to balance the richness, such as a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or crunchy cole slaw. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are also fantastic to scoop up every last bit of cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cheeseburger macaroni recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets personalized with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. You could also turn it into a casserole by baking with additional cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden crust that adds a satisfying crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheeseburger macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to allow it to cool before refrigerating to preserve the creamy sauce texture and prevent condensation from making it watery.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully if you want to save some for later. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen cheeseburger macaroni will maintain its flavor and texture for up to two months—just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and prevent sticking. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess and enjoy it just like fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni is classic and holds the sauce well, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like shells, elbow, or even mini penne. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed since different pasta shapes cook at varying rates.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Just brown your chosen protein substitute as you would the beef and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can be stirred in when browning the beef or added during the simmering step. This adds extra nutrition and flavor variety without compromising the cheeseburger macaroni appeal.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef. Serving with sliced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce on the side also amps up the spicy kick.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can experiment with other melty cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for different flavor profiles and textures.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe is a keeper. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, delivers big on flavor, and brings all the comfort of a cheeseburger into a cozy pasta dish. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, it’s sure to become a beloved meal in your rotation. Go ahead and try it—you might just find your new favorite crowd-pleaser!
Print
Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and comforting Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe that combines lean ground beef, tender macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese for a classic, family-friendly meal in just 25 minutes.
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
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt until well combined. Set the sauce mixture aside.
- Brown Beef and Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced sweet onion, breaking up the meat with a spoon, and cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, drain off any excess grease, and return the skillet to the heat.
- Add Sauce and Pasta: Give the prepared broth mixture a quick stir, then pour it into the skillet with the beef and onions. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the uncooked macaroni pasta.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Once the macaroni is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese has melted completely, about 1 minute. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use either low-sodium chicken broth or beef broth depending on your flavor preference.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- For a creamier texture, you may add a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cheese.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
