Are you craving a comforting, cheesy mac and cheese but want to elevate it to the next level? This Beefy Mac and Cheese recipe is the perfect answer! It combines the creamy goodness of classic mac and cheese with the savory richness of tender beef, creating a truly satisfying and delicious meal. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience mac and cheese like never before!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Add the cooked macaroni and both cheeses to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is evenly coated in the sauce. If desired, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with bread crumbs, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips for the Best Beefy Mac and Cheese:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses. Experiment with different types like Gruyere, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
- Don't overcook the macaroni. It should be al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots to the macaroni and cheese.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy twist.
- Bacon Beef Mac and Cheese: Crumble some cooked bacon into the mixture for extra smoky flavor.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Substitute cooked shredded chicken for the ground beef and add buffalo wing sauce to the cheese sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This beefy mac and cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend meal. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the best of both worlds – comfort food with a gourmet twist! Enjoy!