Hamburger Mac
A hearty and comforting casserole combining creamy macaroni and cheese with savory ground beef and vegetables, perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni and cheese dinner as directed on the package.
- Brown the hamburger with chopped onions and chopped green onions.
- Drain off excess grease.
- Add tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, and the prepared macaroni and cheese to the meat mixture.
- Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the macaroni and cheese. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option. If you want to add some heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the dish's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Hamburger Mac pairs well with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition. For a fun twist, sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving, or offer hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then heat at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Mac contains roughly 327 calories, with 12g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1159mg per serving (50% 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 Hamburger Mac ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before putting it in the oven.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can use an equal amount of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may make the dish a bit more liquid, so you might want to reduce the water slightly.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to increase the nutritional value and add flavor. Simply sauté them with the onions and ground meat until they're tender before mixing in the other ingredients.
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).