Cheeseburger Macaroni Pasta
This Cheeseburger Macaroni Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory ground beef for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 lb ground beef, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of milk. Stir in 1 teaspoon of mustard and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly for 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Return the browned beef to the skillet, then add the cooked elbow macaroni. Stir thoroughly to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, or alongside a crisp salad.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for a creamier melt and better texture.
- Let the beef brown well to develop a nice crust and deeper flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Keyword Beef, Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy, Quick