One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni – Easy, Cheesy & Kid-Friendly Dinner!

Table of Contents: One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

ONE POT CHEESEBURGER MACARONI: The Ultimate Comfort Food!

Remember those carefree family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, laughing and enjoying a hearty, delicious meal? This One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni brings that feeling right back. It’s the perfect blend of classic cheeseburger flavors and creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese – all made in one pot! If you’re looking for an easy way to satisfy the whole family, look no further.

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a complete meal that’s unbelievably simple to make. Forget juggling multiple pots and pans – this recipe streamlines the process, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you just want a fuss-free, satisfying dinner. We’re talking about the deliciousness of a cheeseburger, deconstructed and combined with perfectly cooked macaroni in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a fantastic easy cheeseburger pasta option that delivers big on flavor without the big cleanup. You can even customize it to your family’s preferences!

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, craving a cozy night in, or simply need a quick and quick ground beef pasta solution, this recipe has you covered. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good cheeseburger?

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names! You might also find it called “Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet,” “Hamburger Macaroni,” or simply “Cheeseburger Pasta.” It’s a close cousin to skillet macaroni and cheese, but with the added savory punch of ground beef and all the fixings of a classic cheeseburger. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Some folks like to throw in a handful of frozen peas or corn for added veggies.

Ingredients: One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy masterpiece:

• * 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• * 1/2 cup diced onion
• * 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• * 1 tablespoon tomato paste (boosts richness)
• * 3 tablespoons ketchup
• * 3 tablespoons mustard
• * 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• * 1 tablespoon steak seasoning
• * 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• * 1 – 2 teaspoons dill pickle juice (optional but highly recommended for “cheeseburger brightness”)
• * 2 cups milk (add ½ cup more if you like extra creaminess)
• * 2 cups beef broth (add up to 1 extra cup if needed while cooking)
• * 2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon beef base
• * 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes with juice
• * 1 pound elbow macaroni
• * 1 cup shredded American cheese
• * 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• * Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional:* 1–2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon beef base for deeper beef flavor
• Optional:* 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Chef Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot! If necessary, brown the beef in batches to ensure even cooking.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.

3. Build the Flavor Base: Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, steak seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the flavors to meld. This is where the “cheeseburger” magic really starts to happen!

4. Add the Liquids & Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth and milk. Add the Better Than Bouillon beef base and the can of diced tomatoes (with the juice). If you’re using pickle juice, add it now. Stir well to combine.

5. Cook the Macaroni: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Chef Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the pasta is still too firm and the liquid is gone, add a little more beef broth, ¼ cup at a time.

6. Melt in the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded American and cheddar cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Chef Tip: Don’t add all the cheese at once. Add it gradually, stirring continuously, to prevent clumping.

7. Adjust & Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you want an even richer sauce, stir in the optional heavy cream. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Approximate Calories: 550 per serving (estimate, varies with cheese and additions)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni works because it layers flavors in a way that mimics a real cheeseburger. The combination of ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika creates that classic burger seasoning profile. Using tomato paste adds a depth of umami that elevates the sauce. And the secret ingredient – dill pickle juice – provides a bright, tangy counterpoint to the richness of the cheese and beef.

It’s truly easy comfort food for family dinners. The one-pot method minimizes cleanup, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite cheeseburger toppings like bacon bits, sliced mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover cheeseburger macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze it without any added garnishes. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or beef broth to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

People Also Ask: One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

How do you make one pot cheeseburger macaroni?

Making this one pot cheeseburger macaroni is incredibly straightforward! You start by browning ground beef in a large pot, then sautéing onions and garlic. Next, you add a flavorful blend of tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, and seasonings. Finally, you pour in the liquids (beef broth and milk), add the macaroni, and simmer until cooked. The cheese is stirred in at the end for a creamy, delicious finish. The beauty of this recipe is that everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Can you cook pasta directly in the pot?

Yes, absolutely! That’s the key to this one pot pasta recipe. Cooking the macaroni directly in the flavorful broth allows it to absorb all the delicious seasonings as it cooks. This results in a more flavorful and cohesive dish compared to cooking the pasta separately. Just be sure to use a deep enough pot and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

What cheese is best for cheeseburger macaroni?

While you can experiment with different cheeses, a combination of American and cheddar is classic for a reason. American cheese melts beautifully and creates a super creamy sauce. Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the beef and seasonings. You can also add a little Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for extra meltiness and flavor complexity.

Is one pot cheeseburger macaroni good for kids?

Yes! This easy cheeseburger pasta is generally a huge hit with kids. It combines two of their favorite foods – cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese – into one convenient dish. The flavors are mild and familiar, and the creamy texture is appealing to most children. You can even customize it to their preferences by adding extra ketchup or leaving out the pickle juice.

Conclusion: One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

So there you have it – a ridiculously easy, incredibly delicious One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and seasonings! I truly hope you give this recipe a try.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Share your photos and comments below – let me know what variations you tried and what your family thought. Happy cooking!

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