Hamburger Mac and Cheese Recipe: How To Make The Best Hamburger
Jennifer
Few dishes scream comfort food quite like hamburger mac and cheese. This hearty, creamy, and cheesy meal is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or seeking comfort on a cold evening, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of nostalgia and indulgence.
Table Of Content:
History of hamburger mac and cheese Recipe:
Hamburger mac and cheese, as we know it today, is a fusion of two iconic American staples: macaroni and cheese and ground beef. Macaroni and cheese trace their roots back to 13th-century Italy, but it was Thomas Jefferson who popularized the dish in the United States after encountering it during his travels to Europe. By the 20th century, the meal had become a symbol of comfort and simplicity in American households.
Ground beef, on the other hand, has a rich history tied to hamburgers, which originated in the late 19th century. Combining ground beef with macaroni and cheese became a natural evolution for busy cooks looking to create a single-pot meal that satisfied both adults and children.
During the Great Depression, this dish gained popularity as an affordable way to feed families, combining protein-rich. It combines the creamy allure of mac and cheese. Today, hamburger mac and cheese remains a beloved dish, celebrated for its versatility, ease, and crowd-pleasing flavors.
Why You’ll Love This hamburger mac and cheese Recipe:
This hamburger mac and cheese recipe is a true comfort classic that’s hard to resist. The creamy sauce, tender noodles, and savory beef create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. The recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients, making it accessible to cooks of all levels.
You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs—whether that’s adding veggies, swapping in gluten-free pasta, or experimenting with different cheese blends. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that freezes well, so you can always have comfort food ready to go when you need it most.
Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty, flavorful beef. It’s a recipe that’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters, bringing joy and warmth to your table.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Cook Pasta in Broth: Cooking the pasta in beef broth enhances its flavor and adds richness to the dish.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may contain additives that prevent smooth melting. Grate your cheese for a creamier sauce.
- Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Cook the noodles until they’re al dente to maintain texture during mixing.
- Drain the Beef Well: Removing excess grease ensures the dish doesn’t become oily.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Add a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for depth of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh while the cheese sauce is still warm and gooey.
How To Make This hamburger mac and cheese Recipe:
Hamburger Mac and Cheese Recipe: How To Make The Best Hamburger
Equipment
- Extra-Large Skillet or Dutch Oven For cooking the pasta, beef, and combining all ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls To set aside cooked pasta or mix other ingredients.
- Cheese Grater For shredding cheddar cheese.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula For stirring ingredients smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board To dice tomatoes and chop onions.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 16 oz large elbow noodles
- 5 cups beef broth
For the Sauce:
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter 1 stick
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 sweet onion chopped
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large skillet, cook the elbow noodles in beef broth over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes, or until they are tender. If you prefer al dente pasta, reduce the cooking time to 6 minutes. Once done, transfer the noodles to a large bowl and set aside, leaving them in the broth to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Beef: In the same skillet, combine the ground beef and chopped onion. Use a wooden spoon to crumble the beef and cook over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. The onions should become tender but not browned. Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Create the Sauce: Turn the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and let it melt. Mix in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add salt to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked noodles and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together until the noodles are fully coated in the cheese sauce and the tomatoes are evenly mixed in.
- Serve: Serve the hamburger mac and cheese warm, straight from the skillet. Enjoy its creamy, cheesy goodness
Notes
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze fully cooked mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Baking Option: Assemble the dish in a 9×9 baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
- Additional Veggies: Add peas, bell peppers, or spinach for a nutritional boost.
- Spicy Twist: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a hint of heat.
| Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 858 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Protein | 36 g |
| Fat | 58 g |
| Saturated Fat | 33 g |
| Cholesterol | 179 mg |
| Sodium | 1448 mg |
| Potassium | 519 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Vitamin A | 1638 IU |
| Vitamin C | 2 mg |
| Calcium | 481 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Alternative Meats: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free elbow noodles.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for Colby jack or a mix of sharp and mild cheddar.
- Add Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives make a great garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, prepare the dish up to the final step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat on the stovetop.
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth and consistent.
Absolutely! Shells, rotini, or penne work well for this recipe.
Pair it with a green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Use freshly grated cheese and stir continuously while melting.
Hamburger mac and cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. The rich, creamy sauce and hearty beef make it perfect for satisfying cravings and bringing people together. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will never disappoint. Try it out today and enjoy the warmth of homemade comfort.
Don’t forget to check out other Hamburger recipes and to share your results and leave a comment below—we’d love to hear your feedback!
