One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni
A delightful and comforting dish that captures the flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy pasta form, cooked all in one pan.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20) You can replace with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 7 ounces) Substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for healthier options.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 2.5 cups beef broth (about 20 fl oz)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%) Opt for non-dairy alternatives if lactose intolerant.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
To Serve
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly shredded) Using freshly shredded cheese yields better melting and a creamier texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, lightly season with salt and pepper, and cook until mostly browned but still slightly pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the paste caramelizes slightly and the mixture darkens.
- Pour in the beef broth and milk, then stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni all at once, stirring to submerge it in the liquid. Reduce heat to medium-low and gently simmer, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, for about 10–12 minutes until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the butter until melted, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Notes
Serve garnished with chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color. Try adding bacon bits or avocado for richer flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially after adding the cheese.