Cheeseburger Macaroni

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your pantry or refrigerator right now.

• Better Than Boxed: It’s just as easy as the box but way more flavorful and free from preservatives.

• Customizable: Feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight, this one-pan meal comes together in under 30 minutes.

• Family Favorite: This cheesy, comforting dish will have your family asking for seconds.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 cup hot water

• 2 cups milk

• 1 1/2 cups macaroni

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Cook the Ground Meat: In a deep pan or pot, brown your ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken). Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and return the meat to the pan.

2. Add the Spices: To the browned meat, add paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir to combine.

3. Add the Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the hot water, milk, and macaroni. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked, stirring occasionally.

5. Cheese it Up: Once the pasta is tender, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

6. Serve: Let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken, then serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Lighter Version: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meal.

• Extra Cheesy: Add more cheese, or try mixing in a different type of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a twist.

• Add Veggies: Add some peas, bell peppers, or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and color.

• Spicy Version: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta shape like penne, shells, or rotini will work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like some heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It also freezes well.

Can I make it without cornstarch?

Yes, the cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, but you can skip it if you prefer a thinner consistency.

How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

Make sure to simmer the pasta just until it’s al dente, and stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

Can I use evaporated milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, you can substitute evaporated milk, but it may create a richer, creamier texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You can use a plant-based ground meat substitute to make it vegetarian-friendly.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Adjust the seasonings to taste—more paprika, garlic powder, or a bit of mustard can help bring more depth to the flavor.

Can I make this a one-pan meal?

Yes! This recipe is made in a deep pan or pot, so there’s no need for extra cooking equipment. It’s a one-pan wonder!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just double the ingredients and make it in a larger pot. You may need to simmer a little longer to ensure everything cooks through.

Conclusion

Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni is an easy, delicious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty and satisfying. By ditching the box and making it from scratch, you get to enjoy all the flavors of the classic Hamburger Helper without the preservatives. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!