ground beef macaroni cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
ground beef macaroni cheese recipe
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The Best ground beef macaroni cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite comfort food recipes: ground beef macaroni cheese. This classic dish is a staple in many American households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and satisfying.

I remember my kids loving this recipe when they were younger, and now they’re grown up and still request it whenever they come home. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a comforting meal after a long day.

My husband and I also love how this recipe is a great way to get some veggies in our diet, especially with the addition of steamed broccoli on the side. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty as the first serving, making it perfect for meal prep or packing lunches for work.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that this recipe is all about balance – not too much pasta, not too much cheese, but just the right amount of each to create a perfect harmony of flavors. I’ve experimented with different types of pasta and cheeses to find the perfect combination for our taste buds.

My secret ingredient? Adding a sprinkle of paprika on top for an extra boost of flavor.

It’s amazing how something so simple can bring so much joy to our family’s dinner table.

Ground Beef Macaroni Cheese

Ground Beef Macaroni Cheese

4.5 from 1095 votes

A comforting and hearty dish that combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ground Beef

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

2 cups whole milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
4Add ground beef, cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5Season with salt and black pepper, then set aside.
6In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
7Add flour and whisk to form a roux, cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
8Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
9Remove from heat, add cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
10Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
12Add salt and macaroni, cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
13Drain the pasta using a colander and return it to the pot.
14Combine the cooked ground beef mixture and the cheese sauce with the pasta in the pot.
15Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
16Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
17Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
18Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Saucepan
Colander
Wooden spoon
Oven
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the ground beef mixture for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.

This ground beef macaroni cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s easy to make, delicious, and packed with protein and vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your family, this dish is sure to be a hit.

I often make a big batch and freeze portions for later, making it a great meal prep option. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheese, making it a versatile dish that can be tailored to your family’s tastes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers and reduce food waste.

I love that this dish is a one-pan wonder, making it easy to prepare and clean up. Just brown the ground beef, add the pasta, sauce, and cheese, and you’re good to go. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potluck or a cozy night in.

The rich and creamy cheese sauce, combined with the savory flavor of ground beef, creates a meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. This ground beef macaroni cheese recipe is a classic comfort food that the whole family will love.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Macaroni Cheese

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any short pasta shape you like for this recipe. I recommend using a pasta shape that can hold the cheese sauce well. Some good options include elbows, shells, or rotini.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables instead. You can use mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to add flavor and texture to the dish.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. You can freeze individual portions or the entire dish. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like for this recipe. I recommend using a blend of cheeses to create a rich and creamy sauce. Some good options include cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add more vegetables to this recipe to boost the nutrition. Some good options include peas, carrots, or spinach. Just be sure to add them at the right time so that they cook properly.

Can I make this dish in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in the slow cooker. Just brown the ground beef and add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Then add the pasta and cheese and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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