Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something both comforting and satisfying? Look no further! This Mac and Cheese with Hamburger recipe elevates the classic dish to new heights, blending the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the savory heartiness of a juicy hamburger. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a family gathering. This easy recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, delivering a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Hamburger
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Set aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Macaroni
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Making the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low.
Step 4: Combining Everything
Stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked macaroni and hamburger mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine everything thoroughly.
Step 5: Baking (Optional)
For an extra cheesy, bubbly finish, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese with Hamburger:
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of your cheese will significantly impact the overall taste of your dish. Opt for sharp cheddar and a flavorful Monterey Jack for the best results.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni will become mushy. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
- Stir frequently: Stirring frequently prevents lumps from forming in the cheese sauce and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon into the mac and cheese for added flavor and texture.
- Veggie Mac and Cheese: Add sauteed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the hamburger mixture.
- Different Cheese Blend: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Gouda, or Fontina.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on cheese and meat choices)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This hearty and flavorful Mac and Cheese with Hamburger is a perfect example of delicious, easy recipes that don't compromise on taste or satisfaction. It’s a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option (when using lean ground beef), and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!