Craving comfort food but looking for something a little more exciting than your average mac and cheese? Then get ready to dive headfirst into the cheesy, meaty goodness of Cheeseburger Macaroni and Cheese! This recipe takes all the things you love about a classic cheeseburger and perfectly blends them with creamy, dreamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. This homemade cooking masterpiece is easier than you think!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Create the Cheeseburger Sauce
Stir in the tomato soup, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This is where the magic happens!
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
While the sauce simmers, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine Everything!
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and the cheeseburger sauce. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Bake (Optional)
For an extra-cheesy, bubbly finish, pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese:
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of your cheese will greatly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: Overcooked pasta will become mushy. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheeseburger Mac: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheeseburger sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Mac: Crumble cooked bacon into the mixture before baking for extra flavor and texture.
- Veggie Cheeseburger Mac: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A reasonable estimate for a serving from a 9x13 inch pan would be around 400-500 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient brands.
This Cheeseburger Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and easy way to elevate a classic comfort food. Enjoy this healthy meal option that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. It's one of the best recipes you’ll ever try!