Cheeseburger Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining the hearty flavors of a classic burger with creamy, cheesy pasta. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and packed with bold, savory flavors. Tender ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni come together in every bite, creating a texture that’s both comforting and indulgent.
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering a nostalgic twist on two favorites while being surprisingly easy to whip up. The golden cheese sauce clings to every noodle, while hints of garlic and onion add depth to the dish. It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something irresistibly delicious.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce; or use homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 ounce can of Rotel; substitute with plain diced tomatoes if preferred)
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 Tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 2 Tbsp flour (all-purpose)
- ¾ cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for bold flavor)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp ground pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and uncooked elbow macaroni. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 12-14 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make the cheese sauce: While the macaroni mixture is simmering, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and starts to turn a light brown color.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Incorporate cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper.
- Combine and serve: Pour the cheese sauce over the hamburger and macaroni mixture in the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Top It Off: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your Cheeseburger Macaroni with some extra flair! Try adding a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for a tangy kick. For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped green onions or cilantro on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, a handful of crumbled bacon adds a smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. Don’t forget a cold beverage—iced tea or lemonade makes a refreshing complement.
Make It Last: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the dish seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk or beef broth to bring back the creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate when thawed.
Switch It Up: Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use different pasta shapes like shells or penne. For a veggie-packed version, add diced bell peppers or zucchini when browning the meat. The possibilities are endless!
Quick Fixes: Time-Saving Tips
To speed up preparation, consider pre-measuring your ingredients before you start cooking. You can also use pre-shredded cheese to save time. If you’re really in a hurry, skip the homemade cheese sauce and use a pre-made cheese sauce or velveeta. Just stir it in during the last step, and you’re good to go!
Cheeseburger Macaroni
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning or about 1 ounce
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilis 10 ounce can of Rotel
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground pepper
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and drain grease.
- Stir in taco seasoning, tomatoes, beef broth, and macaroni and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover pan. Simmer 12-14 minutes until macaroni is tender.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan.
- Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn a light brown color.
- Whisk in the milk and bring to a boil. Whisk until smooth and mixture starts to thicken.
- Remove mixture from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add the salt and pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the hamburger mixture. Stir gently to combine.