Irresistible Cheeseburger Macaroni Bowl Recipe to Savor

Cheeseburger Macaroni Bowl is like a warm hug for your stomach, with cheesy goodness melting into every nook and cranny of perfectly cooked pasta. The savory aroma wafts through the air, making it impossible to resist diving right in. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.

As a kid, I remember the first time my mom whipped up this dish on a rainy Saturday. The kitchen filled with laughter as we gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting our bowls. This delightful meal has become a go-to comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Sharing this dish at family gatherings always brings smiles and compliments from everyone. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: About two cups of elbow macaroni provide that classic pasta shape for this dish.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while still packing in flavor.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the flavor; you can also use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives that gooey, melty goodness we all crave.

• Milk: Whole milk creates a rich sauce; feel free to substitute with low-fat if desired.

• Beef Broth: Adds extra flavor to the sauce; homemade broth is great but store-bought works just fine.

• Mustard Powder: A dash of mustard powder elevates the cheeseburger flavor profile without overpowering.

• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness; it’s my secret weapon for depth of flavor.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni Bowl

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add two cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté one chopped onion until translucent and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes should do.

Add Ground Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add one pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep it lighter.

Add Garlic & Spices: Stir in two minced garlic cloves along with one teaspoon each of mustard powder and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute until aromatic—this is where the magic begins!

Create the Sauce: Pour in one cup each of beef broth and whole milk into the skillet while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow everything to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Add Cheddar Cheese: Gradually stir in two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed—it should be irresistible!

Now that you have crafted this delicious Cheeseburger Macaroni Bowl, gather everyone around! The smell alone will have them running to the table like kids on Christmas morning. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef, then cook the pasta simultaneously in a separate pot. Finally, combine everything in one pan to meld those cheesy flavors perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Customize your bowl with extra spices, veggies, or even bacon bits for added crunch and flavor. Try using different cheeses to elevate the dish further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Sometimes, I whip this up for friends, and they rave about how comforting it feels—like a warm hug on a plate!

FAQ

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based meat alternative.

What cheeses work best?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices! They melt well and add fantastic flavor.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat level!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Cheeseburger Macaroni Bowl

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cheeseburger Macaroni Bowl—a dish that combines the nostalgia of childhood with a delightful twist on classic comfort food. This easy-to-make recipe features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich sauce of ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this meal is sure to bring smiles around the table.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk (or low-fat)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add Ground Beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Incorporate Garlic & Spices: Stir in minced garlic, mustard powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Create Sauce: Pour in beef broth and milk; scrape up any browned bits from the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add Cheese: Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg