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One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni

One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni: Comfort Food in 30 Minutes

One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni is a creamy, cheesy dish that evokes nostalgic family dinners, ready in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Main Dish
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Use lean beef for a healthier option; can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Opt for gluten-free pasta if necessary.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Freshly shredded melts beautifully; can use dairy-free shreds for lactose-free.
  • 1 cup Milk Adds creaminess; substitute with broth or half-and-half for richer flavor.
  • 2 cups Broth Low-sodium recommended.
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Essential for authentic cheeseburger taste.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust to taste.
For Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Optional Veggies (peas, bell peppers) Great for nutrition; toss during simmering.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring no pink remains. If excess fat collects, carefully drain it.
  2. Once the beef is browned, stir in the elbow macaroni, milk, and broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while occasionally stirring.
  3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, until the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Spoon the One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni directly from the skillet into bowls. Serve hot, optionally with additional cheese or veggies.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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