One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni: Comfort Food Made Easy

One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is a nostalgic meal that combines everything you love about cheeseburgers with easy one-pot cooking.

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Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: cheesy pasta, comfort food, easy recipes, family favorites, One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni, quick meals

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 30

Total Time: 40

Servings: servings

Calories: 450kcal

Equipment

Large pot

Ingredients

For the Base

1 lb ground beef Use lean beef for a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
1 cup diced onion Adds sweetness and depth; sauté until fragrant for the best result.
2 cups macaroni Choose elbow macaroni for that classic cheeseburger texture.
3 cups beef broth Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still packing in flavor.
2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce A must for depth and savory umami notes.
1 teaspoon garlic powder Helps boost flavors without the fuss of fresh garlic.
1 teaspoon salt Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
½ teaspoon pepper A pinch provides the perfect subtle kick.

For the Creamy Finish

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese The star of the dish—go for sharp cheddar for an extra zing!

For Garnish (Optional)

chopped parsley Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
green onions Adds a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
bacon bits For a smoky, crunchy texture; a delightful indulgence to elevate each bite!

Instructions

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, roughly 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.
Add 1 cup of diced onion to the beef in the pot, and sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Next, stir in 2 cups of macaroni, along with 3 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and cover the pot, letting it simmer for about 8-10 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese directly into the macaroni mixture. Stir well until the cheese melts.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating for optimal texture and taste.

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