Cheeseburger Macaroni (Homemade Hamburger Helper)
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This homemade cheeseburger macaroni recipe is a simple yet family-pleasing meal that has quickly become a favorite in our household. While my family loves store-bought Hamburger Helper, I’m not as much of a fan. That’s why I decided to create a homemade version that offers the same comfort but with fresher, more flavorful ingredients.
Think of this Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe as an elevated Hamburger Helper, but far superior to anything that comes from a box. This version is creamy and cheesy, featuring tender pasta combined with seasoned ground beef and just a hint of spice to give it that extra kick. It’s the perfect meal for those chilly winter or fall evenings, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to make, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
INGREDIENTS TO MAKE Cheeseburger Macaroni
- GROUND BEEF
- ONION
- TACO SEASONING
- MILD RO*TEL
- BEEF BROTH
- ELBOW MACARONI
- BUTTER
- FLOUR
- MILK
- SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE
- SALT
- PEPPER
How to Make Cheeseburger Macaroni
Cook the Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 chopped onion. Sauté until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is softened, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease to avoid a greasy dish.
Add Seasoning and Other Ingredients: To the skillet, add 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 can of Rotel tomatoes (undrained), 1 cup of beef broth, and 2 cups of macaroni. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook for 12-14 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
Make the Cheese Sauce: While the macaroni is cooking, melt butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk flour and cook for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is fragrant and light brown in color.
Thicken the Sauce: Slowly whisk in milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue to cook while whisking until the sauce is smooth and has thickened to the consistency of gravy, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked beef and macaroni mixture in the skillet. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients until the macaroni is evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
This homemade Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni dish is an ideal meal for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and comforting dinner that the whole family will love. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of spice!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for Cheeseburger Macaroni?
Yes, you can substitute the recommended pasta with your favorite shape. Shells or rotini also work well with this recipe.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Cheeseburger Macaroni in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Can I use another type of ground meat for this recipe?
Ground beef is the classic choice, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Ensure the meat is well-cooked and drained before adding other ingredients.
What kind of cheese is best for Cheeseburger Macaroni?
Cheddar cheese works well for its sharp flavor. However, you can also use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Colby. This will give you a smoother texture.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded cheese is convenient. For the creamiest texture, we recommend shredding cheese from a block just before using it.
For More Pasta Recipes, Try:
- Skillet Beef and Macaroni
- Homemade Lasagna Hamburger Helper
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Skillet
- Healthy Skillet Lasagna
Cheeseburger Macaroni
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ½ onion diced
- 1-2 Tbsp taco seasoning I use more like 1 Tbsp
- 1 (10 oz) can mild Ro*tel
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp flour
- ¾ cup milk
- 4 oz. sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ tsp salt
- pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef and onion; drain off any grease.
- Add taco seasoning, Rotel, beef broth, and macaroni; stir until well blended. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat to simmer and cover pan.
- Simmer 12-14 mins until macaroni is tender.
- While the hamburger mixture simmers, melt the 2 Tbsp butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour and cook 2 minutes until fragrant and light brown in color.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a boil. Cook while whisking until smooth and thickened to the consistency of gravy.
- Remove from heat and blend in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add the salt and pepper to the cheese sauce. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked hamburger mixture. Stir gently to combine.
Nutrition
Recipe adapted from Kevin and Amanda.
