Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Description
The Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe starts by browning ground beef with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, which build the foundational seasoned flavor. Cream cheese is stirred in to give a rich and creamy texture. Beef broth is added in two parts, with cornstarch mixed into some of the broth to gently thicken the sauce as the pasta cooks. Half-and-half and dry pasta go into the mixture next, and the ingredients simmer together until the pasta is al dente. Finally, shredded cheese is folded in or melted on top off the heat to create a creamy, cheesy coating for the macaroni.
The result is a comforting pasta dish that mimics the flavors of a cheeseburger in a simple skillet meal, great for a satisfying dinner that combines meat, cheese, and pasta in one pot. The recipe allows for flexible cook times to suit different pasta brands, ensuring the best texture.
The notes suggest starting with the minimum cooking time for the pasta, tasting for doneness to keep the pasta al dente without overcooking. This step helps achieve a balanced bite between the tender pasta and creamy sauce consistency.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth seperated into 2 cups and 1/2 cup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 2 cups pasta elbow macaroni or small shells
- 1 cup cheese cheddar, monterey, colby jack work well, shredded
Instructions
- In a large deep skillet or dutch oven, brown ground beef over medium heat. If desired or needed, drain off fat. Sprinkle in spices, salt and pepper and stir to combine. Add in cream cheese and as it melts, stir to combine.
- Once beef has been browned pour in two cups of beef broth. Add cornstarch to the remaining beef broth until well combined, with no clumps remaining. Pour into beef and broth mixture in pan, and stir to combine.
- Add in half and half and dried pasta. Bring to a simmer. Cover and let simmer for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.*
- Add in cheese, and either stir to combine, or allow to melt on top by removing pan from burner and letting sit covered for 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Check macaroni doneness early and adjust simmering time to avoid overcooked pasta.
- Drain browned ground beef if excess fat collects before adding spices and cream cheese.
- Use shredded cheese varieties such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack for best melting results.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 299kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 14g | 5% |
| Protein | 17g | 34% |
| Fat | 19g | 29% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 65mg | 22% |
| Sodium | 872mg | 36% |
| Potassium | 286mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 527IU | 11% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 115mg | 12% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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