Pin it
Nothing hits the spot during cold snaps like a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac loaded with ground beef. It's comfort in a dish. Full of pasta, beef, and two types of gooey cheese, it takes me back to simpler times—and my family always finishes every last bite whenever I whip it up.
One evening, nobody could pick what they wanted for dinner, but somehow this dish made everyone happy. These days, they ask for it as soon as the temperature drops.
Flavorful Ingredients
- Shredded parmesan cheese: Adds that savory punch. Try grating from a block if you can spare a minute.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Gooey and flavorful—go for extra sharp if you love intense flavor.
- Macaroni noodles: The classic elbow shape works best, catching all that creamy goodness.
- Matchstick carrots: Bring sweetness and bright color, and save you chopping time.
- Paprika: Try the smoky kind for deeper flavor or standard for gentle warmth.
- Onion powder and Italian seasoning: Add these for that comforting, herbal touch. Look for mixes with plenty of basil.
- Salt and pepper: Kosher salt and cracked black pepper make all the difference.
- Heavy cream: Creates that silky texture—make sure it's full-fat for best results.
- Chicken broth: Forms a tasty foundation. Pick reduced sodium to control the saltiness yourself.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens everything up nicely—unbleached works best if you've got it.
- Chopped garlic: Boosts overall taste. Fresh cloves will give you the most bang.
- Yellow onion: Cut into tiny pieces; they'll practically vanish while adding sweetness.
- Lean ground beef: Freshly ground delivers the juiciest results.
- Olive oil: Prevents sticking and adds subtle flavor; grab extra virgin if you can.
Easy Instructions
- Add in the Cheeses:
- Toss in your cheddar and parmesan once cooking time's up. Stir quickly until everything gets melty and smooth. Sample and dig in while it's still steaming hot.
- Simmer and Let It Cook:
- Put the lid on and lower the heat. Let it bubble softly for about twenty minutes. Stir occasionally so the pasta doesn't clump together or stick to the bottom.
- Add Pasta plus Carrots:
- Once the pot's hot, dump in the carrots and dry macaroni. Mix gently until all ingredients blend well.
- Season Everything:
- Sprinkle in paprika, Italian herbs, salt, onion powder, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, give it a taste, and adjust if needed.
- Pour in Cream and Broth:
- Add the broth—scraping those tasty bits from the bottom. Pour in cream and stir until everything looks unified.
- Start the Flavor Base:
- Add the diced garlic, cooking until you smell that wonderful aroma. Sprinkle flour in, stir constantly for three full minutes. This step keeps your dish from tasting floury later.
- Sauté Beef and Onion:
- Pour olive oil into your large soup pot. With the heat at medium-high, add beef and onions, breaking it up as you go. Cook until nicely browned for maximum flavor, roughly 8-10 minutes.
Pin it
The way the cheddar melts makes this true comfort food. Just the aroma brings everyone to the table. Sometimes one spoonful takes me straight back to standing in my mother's kitchen hoping for seconds. It's like warmth and memories served up in a bowl.
Saving Extra Portions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days. Warm slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick. Keep the heat low so everything stays creamy. You can also freeze portions—just cool completely first, then transfer to storage bags or containers. Let it thaw in the fridge before heating up again.
Mix-ins and Alternatives
Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Skip meat altogether and use veggie crumbles with vegetable broth for a plant-based option. Any melty cheese works well, so grab Monterey Jack or Colby if that's what you have. No elbow macaroni? Small shells or twists will do the trick. For dairy sensitivities, go for lactose-free cream options.
Serving Suggestions
Serve it steaming hot with an extra sprinkle of cheese and fresh pepper on top. Grab a chunk of crusty bread or soft dinner roll to soak up the sauce. I love pairing mine with a simple green salad for contrast. If you're feeling playful, add a few pickle slices or a tiny bit of relish on top for that burger-joint feel.
Origins and Family Memories
Taking cues from classic diners and boxed dinner kits but made from scratch, this one-pot wonder proves comfort food never goes out of style. Each family puts their own twist on cheeseburger-inspired meals, and in our house, it's become the go-to that bridges past and present memories.
Pin it
Take your time and savor each warming spoonful. Here's to creating warm, fuzzy moments with the people you care about most.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch the pasta type?
Totally! Use shells, rotini, or whatever small pasta you’ve got handy. They’ll work just as well!
- → Is making this soup ahead okay?
Yes! You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently and splash in some broth if it thickens up.
- → Can I make it lighter somehow?
Sure! Use low-fat cheese or swap heavy cream with milk for a less rich version.
- → What toppings go with this dish?
Go for extra cheese, crispy bacon pieces, or sprinkle chopped green onions for some crunch.
- → Can leftovers go in the freezer?
Definitely! Just know the pasta gets a bit softer after thawing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm up gently.