Name: One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef; 2 cups Macaroni Pasta; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded; 3 cups Beef Broth; 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1 Onion, diced; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; Salt and Pepper, to taste

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Make mealtime a breeze with One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni—everything you love about burgers in a quick, easy, and satisfying dish! This comforting recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Speedy Preparation: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for hectic evenings.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less time spent washing dishes!
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, meaty flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients based on your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
Comfort Food Classic: It combines all the best aspects of a cheeseburger in a warm, creamy pasta dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a key role in bringing out the rich flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish so irresistible.

Ground Beef: The star of the show, providing hearty protein and flavor.
Macaroni Pasta: The perfect vehicle for all that cheesy goodness, with a delightful bite.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds creaminess and a sharp flavor that complements the beef wonderfully.
Beef Broth: Infuses the dish with a rich, savory taste that enhances every bite.
Onion: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth, making the overall flavor more complex.
Garlic Powder: A dash of this spice elevates the dish with its aromatic notes.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a tangy depth that mimics the flavor of your favorite burger.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

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

Variations for One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your tastes or dietary preferences. Feel free to mix it up and make it your own!

Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat for a hearty plant-based meal.
Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist on the flavor.
Veggies Galore: Add bell peppers, spinach, or peas to sneak in some extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who love heat.

One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni for Busy Nights

How to Make One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

Step 1: Cook the Meat

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add the Onions

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until it’s translucent and fragrant, usually about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the macaroni, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Cover the pot and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, creating a rich sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is now ready to be served! Enjoy it warm, and don’t forget to garnish as desired.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the macaroni to ensure it remains perfectly al dente.
Use Quality Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results.
Add More Flavor: Experiment with additional spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
Keep it Creamy: If the dish seems too thick, stir in a splash of milk or extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

Garnishes

Top your One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni with freshly chopped parsley, green onions, or even crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual bowls topped with cheese and fresh herbs, or in a large serving dish for a family-style meal that encourages sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftovers of your One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the macaroni in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just substitute regular macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

This One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is perfect for meal prep! Just divide into individual containers for a quick grab-and-go meal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch; just make sure your pot is big enough to hold everything!

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative, and you will have a tasty vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the scoop on this delicious One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni, it’s time to whip up your own batch! Not only is it a delightful comfort food, but it also brings the family together for a cozy meal. Give it a try, and enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!