Cheeseburger Macaroni
Cheeseburger Macaroni combines the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheddar cheese into a comforting, kid-friendly dish. Perfect for weeknights, it offers a quick and satisfying meal that captures the classic cheeseburger taste in a creamy, savory pasta casserole.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Add the stewed tomatoes and water; bring to a boil.
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni; bring to a boil again.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until the macaroni is done, stirring once.
- Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef while browning. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. For a creamy twist, stir in a dollop of sour cream at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheeseburger macaroni with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Pickles In A Blanket for a fun twist on classic flavors. For a complete dinner, consider adding a fruit salad or some roasted vegetables to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheeseburger macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir until heated through, ensuring the cheese stays creamy and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheeseburger Macaroni contains roughly 564 calories, with 31g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 611mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheeseburger macaroni ahead of time. Cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just be mindful that the pasta may absorb some sauce, so you might need to add a little water or milk when reheating.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Cheeseburger macaroni freezes well. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk for creaminess.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni on hand, you can use any small pasta shape like shells, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure the cooking time is similar to the elbow macaroni so that everything is cooked perfectly. This flexibility allows you to make this recipe with whatever pasta you have available.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).