Nothing quite hits the spot like a comforting, cheesy dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe is exactly that—it combines the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender macaroni, all in one easy skillet meal. Perfectly balanced with juicy ground beef, tangy tomato elements, and melty cheddar cheese, this dish promises a burst of comforting goodness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dish just right calls for a handful of simple, essential ingredients that transform basic pantry staples into an irresistible meal. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from adding depth and tanginess to delivering creamy texture and a pop of color that makes every forkful inviting.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (2 ½ cups): Provides a flavorful base that cooks the pasta and enhances the overall taste without overpowering.
- Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle tang and complexity that brightens the sauce beautifully.
- Ketchup (â…“ cup): Brings a familiar sweetness and tomato richness reminiscent of classic cheeseburgers.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor for a robust, hearty sauce.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers a warm, aromatic background flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (2 teaspoons): Helps brown the beef and onions while adding a subtle fruitiness.
- Lean ground beef (1 pound): The star protein that makes this dish truly satisfying and hearty.
- Medium sweet onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture, balancing the savory flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick of heat that lifts the dish without overwhelming.
- Uncooked macaroni (2 cups): The perfect pasta shape to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into creamy, gooey perfection for that iconic cheeseburger finish.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herby pop of green for garnish and a touch of brightness.
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Sauce Base
Start by whisking together the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt in a bowl. This mixture is your secret weapon—it’s what infuses the dish with rich and tangy flavors that perfectly mimic that classic cheeseburger taste. Set it aside for now and get ready to cook your beef.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef and diced sweet onion. Break the beef apart and cook until the onions soften and the meat is browned through, about 3 minutes. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes for just a hint of heat. Once cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease and return the pan to the heat.
Step 3: Combine Sauce and Meat
Give your prepared broth mixture a quick stir before pouring it into the skillet with the beef. Bring everything to a rolling boil—it’s the signal the pasta is ready to go in and start soaking up all those juicy flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Add the uncooked macaroni to the boiling liquid, then reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring a few times to prevent sticking. This step lets the noodles cook perfectly in the flavorful sauce, absorbing all the savory goodness and thickening the sauce as they soften.
Step 5: Finish with Cheddar Cheese
Once the macaroni is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Stir until the cheese melts completely into the mixture, creating a creamy, luscious finish. Serve immediately and, if you like, sprinkle with some fresh chopped parsley for a lovely color contrast and herbal brightness.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish tastes incredible on its own, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or even a dash of extra crushed red pepper can add freshness and a bit of color. For a playful twist, you might add some diced pickles or a drizzle of mustard on top to really channel cheeseburger vibes.
Side Dishes
Keep it classic and comforting by pairing this recipe with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli for a pop of healthy green. Garlic bread or a warm dinner roll also make wonderful companions, perfect for scooping every last cheesy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining or just want to elevate this family favorite, serve the cheeseburger macaroni in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins. Add a side of crispy bacon crumbles or a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra indulgent touch. It’s fun, cozy, and sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish holds up beautifully in the fridge. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
Cheeseburger macaroni freezes surprisingly well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leave some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess and prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to rewarm evenly without losing that cheesy melt.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, elbow pasta, shells, or small penne work wonderfully too. Just keep an eye on cooking times as different shapes may vary in texture and absorbency.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll still get that rich, hearty flavor without the meat.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe includes a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes to provide a subtle warmth, but it’s not spicy hot. You can easily adjust the amount or leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this cheeseburger macaroni recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. This way you still get the gooey, cheesy texture with none of the dairy.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick or thin?
If the sauce thickens too much during cooking, just stir in a bit more broth or water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken before adding cheese.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe—it’s like your favorite burger and comforting pasta had a delicious, soul-satisfying baby. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a dish you’ll want to have in your recipe rotation. I encourage you to give it a try soon and experience firsthand how comforting and delightful a simple skillet dinner can be!
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
A comforting and delicious Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe combining savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich cheddar cheese in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This speedy one-pan meal is perfect for a family dinner, packed with classic cheeseburger flavors in a creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients
Broth Mixture
- 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 broth mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken or beef broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt until well combined. Set aside for later use.
- Cook 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 with a spatula. Cook and stir until the onions are soft and the beef is fully browned, about 3 minutes. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, drain excess grease from the pan, and return the skillet to heat.
- Add the broth mixture and macaroni: Give the broth mixture a quick stir, then pour it over the browned beef in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil and add the uncooked macaroni pasta.
- Simmer the pasta: Reduce heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let the macaroni cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish with cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir gently until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce, about 1 minute. Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during pasta cooking to avoid sticking or burning on the bottom.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
