Description
One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni delivers a quick, creamy comfort meal that combines browned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich cheddar‑cream cheese sauce all cooked together in a single skillet. In just 20 minutes you get a hearty, cheesy pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights, topped with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Optional: additional cheese for topping
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 5‑7 minutes; drain excess fat if desired and set aside.
- Return the skillet to the heat, add the beef broth, and sprinkle the elbow macaroni over the liquid. Stir gently, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer and cover.
- Simmer for 8‑10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in the cream cheese until melted, then add the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Season with salt, fold in the chopped parsley, and optionally sprinkle extra cheddar on top to melt briefly before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition is approximate
- exact values depend on specific brands used. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when melting the cheese. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Keywords: One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni, quick pasta dinner, easy cheeseburger recipe, one skillet meals, family comfort food, budget-friendly dinner ideas, creamy macaroni bake