Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni: A Comfort Food Classic Recipe
Macaroni and cheese, a timeless comfort food, gets a hearty and satisfying upgrade with the addition of browned hamburger meat. This Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni recipe is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and anyone craving a warm, cheesy embrace. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Forget complicated recipes, this is pure, unadulterated comfort in a bowl!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Macaroni Recipe
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when you’re short on time.
* **One-Pot Wonder:** Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in one pot, from the pasta to the sauce.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Even the pickiest eaters will love this cheesy, meaty pasta dish.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your liking by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this recipe is a great way to feed a family on a budget.
* **Comfort Food Classic:** It’s the ultimate comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather these simple ingredients:
* **1 pound ground beef:** Lean ground beef is recommended to avoid excessive grease, but you can use your preferred type.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For browning the ground beef.
* **1 medium onion, chopped:** Adds flavor and depth to the sauce.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Essential for a savory flavor.
* **1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained:** Provides a tangy and flavorful base for the sauce.
* **1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce:** Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
* **1 cup beef broth:** Adds moisture and richness to the sauce.
* **1 teaspoon dried oregano:** Adds a touch of Italian flavor.
* **1/2 teaspoon dried basil:** Another classic Italian herb that complements the other flavors.
* **1/4 teaspoon garlic powder:** Enhances the garlic flavor.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Season to your preference.
* **8 ounces elbow macaroni:** The classic pasta shape for macaroni and cheese.
* **2 cups shredded cheddar cheese:** The star of the show! Use a good quality cheddar for the best flavor and melting ability.
* **1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese:** Adds creaminess and melts beautifully.
* **Optional toppings:** Chopped green onions, bacon bits, parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for garnish.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni:
**Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef**
* Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
**Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic**
* Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
**Step 3: Build the Sauce**
* Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
* Bring the mixture to a simmer.
**Step 4: Cook the Macaroni**
* Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir to combine.
* Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
**Step 5: Add the Cheese**
* Remove the pot from the heat.
* Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!**
* Serve the Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni immediately.
* Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, bacon bits, parsley, or a dollop of sour cream.
## Tips and Variations
* **Cheese Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, provolone, pepper jack, or even a touch of cream cheese would be delicious additions.
* **Vegetable Power:** Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
* **Creamy Dreamy:** Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for an extra creamy sauce.
* **Use Different Pasta:** While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.
* **Make it Healthier:** Use whole wheat pasta and lean ground turkey instead of ground beef.
* **Bake it!** Transfer the macaroni to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
* **Slow Cooker Version:** Brown the beef and combine all ingredients (except cheese) in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cheese before serving.
* **Instant Pot Adaptation:** Brown the beef using the sauté function. Add the remaining ingredients (except cheese), and cook on manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Quick release the pressure, stir in the cheese, and serve.
* **Add Some Greens:** Stir in some wilted spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients.
* **Upgrade the Protein:** Use ground sausage or shredded chicken instead of ground beef.
## Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with the following:
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
* **Garlic Bread:** For soaking up all that cheesy sauce.
* **Coleslaw:** A refreshing contrast to the richness of the macaroni.
* **Fruit Salad:** A light and refreshing dessert.
## Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
* **Make-Ahead:** You can prepare the Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
* **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Freezing:** While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 25-35 grams
* Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?**
A: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. For the best results, shred your own cheese.
**Q: Can I use milk instead of beef broth?**
A: Yes, you can use milk in a pinch, but the flavor will be less rich. Consider adding a bouillon cube or a teaspoon of beef base to the milk to enhance the flavor.
**Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from sticking to the pot?**
A: Stir the macaroni occasionally while it’s cooking. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot to help prevent sticking.
**Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**
A: Yes, use gluten-free macaroni and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
**Q: Can I double or triple this recipe?**
A: Yes, simply double or triple all the ingredients, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
## Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni is a comforting, customizable, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of cheesy goodness! This recipe provides endless opportunities for customization, allowing you to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and spices to create your own signature Hamburger Macaroni masterpiece.
Enjoy the warm, comforting embrace of this classic dish and share it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
**Enjoy!**