If you are on the hunt for a comforting crowd-pleaser that’s both quick and deeply satisfying, this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine all the juicy goodness of a cheeseburger combined with the cozy familiarity of macaroni, bubbling with cheese and tomato-rich sauce. It’s an easy dinner that brings out the best in simple ingredients, creating a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe is in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together for maximum flavor. Each component plays a crucial role—from the savory ground beef that builds hearty texture, to the tangy tomato paste and ketchup that perfectly balance sweetness and acidity in the sauce. Plus, the Dijon mustard and garlic powder add subtle layers of complexity that will keep you coming back for more.
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth): This forms the flavorful base for the sauce and helps cook the pasta perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- ⅓ cup ketchup: Brings sweet and tangy notes essential for that classic cheeseburger taste.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a gentle hint of herbal warmth.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish without overpowering them.
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil: Used to brown the beef and onions, adding richness.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The heart of the recipe, adding protein and that classic cheeseburger essence.
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced: Sweetness and texture that balances savory meat.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Gives a slight kick for those who love a touch of heat.
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to soak up all the creamy, cheesy sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the pasta for that gooey, irresistible finish.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness at serving.
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Make Sauce
Start by whisking together the chicken or beef broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. This mixture will become the rich, flavorful sauce that infuses every bite of your macaroni with cheeseburger goodness. Set this aside for now while you move on to the next step.
Step 2: Brown 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 apart the meat as it cooks. The goal here is to get the meat fully cooked through and onions tender, which usually takes about 3 minutes. Once browned, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes to add a subtle heat, then drain off any excess grease before returning the pan to the heat.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Pasta
Pour the prepared broth and tomato-based sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and onions. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add your uncooked macaroni directly to the skillet, which will cook right in the savory sauce, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the macaroni cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, checking and stirring a few times to prevent any sticking. You want the pasta perfectly tender, soaking up the sauce’s rich, cheesy essence.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Once the macaroni is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy, luscious finish. Serve this cheesy, comforting masterpiece immediately, garnished with some chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch if you like.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is a fantastic way to brighten up this hearty dish visually and flavor-wise. Feel free to add a little extra cheddar or even some crispy fried onions on top for texture and an extra layer of indulgence. A dash of black pepper or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can also amp up the personality of this classic comfort food.
Side Dishes
This Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to add freshness and lightness. Coleslaw is another great option, providing a cool and crunchy contrast that complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist when serving, try plating this dish in individual skillet pans or even stuffing it into bell peppers for a colorful presentation. You can also sprinkle extra cheese and place under the broiler for a minute or two to create a golden, bubbly crust on top. These small touches turn the dish into a real showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce, it might thicken; just add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back the creamy consistency.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, making it a perfect meal prep candidate. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Adding a bit of broth or milk will help revive the creamy, cheesy texture. For microwave reheating, cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can swap in elbow pasta, small shells, or even penne. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the shape and thickness.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat alternatives or even lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth, and it will still taste delicious and comforting.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. You may also want to use olive oil instead of butter if your version calls for it.
How spicy is the Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth, so it’s generally mild. You can adjust the amount to your taste or omit it entirely if you prefer no heat.
What is the best way to reheat without drying out the pasta?
Adding a little bit of liquid like broth or milk during reheating keeps the pasta moist and creamy. Reheating slowly over low heat helps prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl, packed with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers that perfect balance of juicy beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese. I hope you give it a try soon and make it a staple in your kitchen just like I have. Bon appétit!
Print
Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe offers a quick and comforting one-pan meal combining tender macaroni with savory ground beef in a tangy tomato-based sauce, finished with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s ready in just 25 minutes and packed with classic cheeseburger flavors.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ⅓ 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 broth, Dijon mustard, ketchup, tomato paste, garlic powder, and kosher salt until fully 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. Cook while breaking the beef into small pieces until the beef is cooked through and the onions are soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, then drain any excess grease from the skillet. Return the pan to heat.
- Add Sauce and Pasta: Stir the prepared broth-based sauce and pour it into the skillet with the beef and onions. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the uncooked macaroni to the pan.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the mixture cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Once the macaroni is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely, about 1 minute. Serve the dish immediately, optionally garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt content of the dish.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of milk or cream when melting the cheese.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste if you prefer less or more heat.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
