One Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni
A hearty one-pot skillet meal combining seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and melted cheddar-mozzarella for a creamy, comforting dinner. This easy weeknight recipe uses a single pot for convenience, featuring rich umami and tomato notes, a smoky paprika touch, and a silky cheese sauce that clings to every noodle.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (80/20) - 1 lb (450g)
- Yellow onion, diced - 1 medium (about 1 cup)
- Garlic, minced - 3 cloves
- Elbow macaroni (uncooked) - 2 cups
- Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
- Worcestershire sauce - 1 tablespoon
- Beef broth - 3 cups
- Whole milk - 1 cup
- Sharp cheddar, freshly grated - 2 cups
- Mozzarella, shredded - 1 cup
- Smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper - To taste
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until crumbly and cooked through
- Add tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to coat the beef
- Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in the same pan until softened
- Add elbow macaroni, beef broth, and a splash of water (if needed) to cover noodles
- Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes
- Stir in whole milk, freshly grated cheddar, and shredded mozzarella
- Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste
- Continue cooking 3–5 minutes until cheese is fully melted, stirring constantly
- Remove from heat and let rest 5–10 minutes for optimal cheese integration
Notes
Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce overall salt content
For dairy-free version, substitute plant-based cheese and milk alternatives
Uncooked pasta absorbs liquid best with no drained noodles required
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes post-rest to add golden crust
For dairy-free version, substitute plant-based cheese and milk alternatives
Uncooked pasta absorbs liquid best with no drained noodles required
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes post-rest to add golden crust
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g
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