The aroma of melted cheese mingling with savory beef fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. spicy jalapeno macaroni salad One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in.
Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of creamy goodness, where every bite is packed with flavor and nostalgia. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy evenings or when you simply want to indulge in something delicious. low carb egg roll bowl.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This one-pot wonder combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavors
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing while being versatile enough for any occasion
- Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a meal that pleases everyone at the table
I still remember the first time I made this dish for friends—they couldn’t get enough and even asked for seconds!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. For more inspiration, check out this ground beef and potatoes casserole recipe.
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Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice that holds sauce well; feel free to swap with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
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Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to enhance the cheesiness; freshly grated melts beautifully.
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Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
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Garlic Powder: A quick way to infuse depth without peeling fresh garlic; use generously!
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Beef Broth: For a rich base; low-sodium versions let you control saltiness better.
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Milk: Adds creaminess; whole milk works best, but you can substitute with plant-based milk if needed.
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Ketchup and Mustard: The secret burger flavors without the grill; adjust to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Onions: Add diced onions to the pot and cook until they become soft and translucent—about 3-4 minutes—while stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in elbow macaroni along with beef broth and milk, ensuring all pasta is submerged. Bring mixture to a boil; then reduce heat and cover.
Cook Until Tender: Allow pasta to simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Melt in Cheese!: Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with ketchup, mustard, salt, or pepper as desired.
Serve Hot!: Dish out generous portions into bowls while it’s still hot. Garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
This One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni not only satisfies cravings but also brings people together—making it an ideal weeknight meal or a fun family dinner! Enjoy every cheesy bite! cheesy potato quesadillas. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken alfredo lasagna recipe.
You Must Know
- One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is not just about convenience; it’s about creating a creamy, cheesy delight that takes you back to childhood
- This dish comes together in one pot, reducing cleanup while delivering rich flavors that make your taste buds sing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef and onions first, then add pasta and broth simultaneously for maximum flavor absorption. This ensures everything cooks evenly and saves time.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. This allows you to personalize the dish while keeping it hearty.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt that enhances creaminess
- Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking, ensuring every bite is delicious
- Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s essential for flavor depth!
During a family gathering, I unveiled this dish, and my niece declared it her new favorite! It feels good to create something that brings smiles around the table.

FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust cooking times as gluten-free pasta may vary in texture.
How can I make One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat!
One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta in a single pot. This nostalgic dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, delivering rich flavors and easy cleanup. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onions and sauté until soft and translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in elbow macaroni, beef broth, and milk; ensure pasta is submerged. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes until macaroni is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with ketchup, mustard, salt, or pepper.
- Serve hot in bowls; garnish with extra cheese or parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg





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