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–+ servings
Hamburger Mac and Cheese

One-Pot Hamburger Mac and Cheese

The Crispy Chef
This one-pot hamburger mac and cheese combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with seasoned ground beef for the ultimate weeknight comfort meal. It’s hearty, kid-friendly, and ready in about 35 minutes—all in a single pot for easy cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 150 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
  • 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
  • Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in water or broth and milk. Add pasta, salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Stir to combine and scrape up browned bits.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  • Turn off heat. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, shred your own cheese and use full-fat dairy. Swap beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground for a lighter version. Add veggies like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Leftovers keep 3–4 days in the fridge, but this dish doesn’t freeze well.

Nutrition

Calories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 32gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 750IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 420mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword comfort food, hamburger helper style, mac and cheese with beef, one pot pasta, weeknight dinner
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