Description
A delicious and easy one pot cheeseburger macaroni that combines ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese in a single pot for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Beef – In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 5-7 minutes until crumbly. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2: Add Aromatics – Add chopped onion and garlic powder; sauté until onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 3: Combine Liquids – Stir in elbow macaroni, chicken broth, and milk; bring to a boil while stirring occasionally.
- Step 4: Season – Mix in Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika if using; ensure pasta is evenly coated.
- Step 5: Simmer – Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until macaroni is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 6: Add Cheese – Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy throughout.
Notes
- Use 85/15 lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and minimal grease drainage
- Stir the pasta frequently during simmering to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot
- Add cheese gradually while stirring to ensure smooth melting without clumping or separation
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485 calories
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: one pot cheeseburger macaroni, ground beef pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal, one pot meal