Mac and Cheese with Hamburger Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

If you’re searching for a satisfying one-dish meal that combines comfort and convenience, look no further. Hamburger Mac and Cheese is an ideal recipe to whip up during busy weeknights. With savory ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is both kid-friendly and hits the mark for adults with its rich flavors. It’s a meal that brings the family together and warms the soul.

Not only is this casserole easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with a variety of seasonings, vegetables, or even different types of cheese. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned. Drain the excess fat.
3. Cook the macaroni: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Mix the sauce: In the same skillet with the beef, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Pour in the milk and beef broth, and stir to combine.
5. Add the pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce mixture, and then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If you’re using frozen peas, add them at this stage.
6. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with breadcrumbs: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the casserole for added crunch.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Hamburger Mac and Cheese

1. Variations in Cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to explore other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
2. Add Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can elevate your casserole while adding nutritional value.
3. Beef Alternatives: If ground beef isn’t your preference, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat-free protein for a vegetarian option.
4. Make-Ahead Meal: This casserole is great for prepping in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to enjoy!

Storage and Reheating

Hamburger Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If it seems dry, adding a splash of milk can help rejuvenate the creamy texture.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish for the family, Hamburger Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit. This casserole combines delicious flavors with simple ingredients, making it a perfect option for any home cook.

Get ready to indulge in a cheesy, meaty delight that is not only filling but also incredibly comforting. Enjoy the process of making this dish, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a family favorite that gets requested time and again!

Made with love, and simplicity in mind, this Hamburger Mac and Cheese recipe will not only satisfy your hunger but also leave you with joyful memories around the dinner table. Now gather your ingredients and get cooking!

Hamburger Mac and Cheese

A satisfying one-dish meal combining savory ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Savory base for the casserole.
• 1 cup onion, chopped Adds flavor to the beef.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni Main carbohydrate component.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Classic cheese choice.
• 1 cup milk Creates a creamy sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth Provides moisture and flavor.

Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder Enhances flavor.
• 1 tablespoon onion powder Boosts onion flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika Adds a mild spice.
• Salt and pepper, to taste Adjust based on preference.

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup frozen peas Optional for added nutrition.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs Optional topping for crunch.
• Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned. Drain the excess fat.
3. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mixing and Baking

1. In the same skillet with the beef, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Pour in the milk and beef broth, and stir to combine.
2. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce mixture, and then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If using frozen peas, add them at this stage.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
4. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the casserole for added crunch.
5. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Variations include using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda, incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach, or changing the meat to ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian option. Great for make-ahead meals and can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.