Description

A quick, hearty, and comforting one-pot meal combining juicy ground beef with creamy, melty cheeses and elbow macaroni. Perfect for busy weeknights and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (80/20 mix)
2 cups (200 grams) dry elbow macaroni
3 cups (720 ml) beef broth
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
2 cups (200 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 slices American cheese, torn into pieces
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce

Instructions

Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink and slightly browned. Break up the beef with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Sprinkle in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the spices bloom for about a minute.
Pour in the beef broth and whole milk. Stir to loosen any browned bits on the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle boil.
Add the dry elbow macaroni to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Let simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Turn off the heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, torn American cheese slices, and butter until melted and creamy. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a pinch of smoked paprika if desired.
Serve immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

If pasta absorbs liquid too quickly and starts sticking, add a few tablespoons of broth or water during cooking. Stir frequently but gently to help cheese melt evenly without clumping. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute milk and pasta accordingly. Avoid overheating when reheating leftovers to prevent cheese separation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 1.5 cups (350
Calories: 575
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 900
Fat: 30
Saturated Fat: 15
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 2
Protein: 30

Keywords: one-pot, cheeseburger, mac and cheese, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, ground beef, creamy pasta