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Cheeseburger Macaroni

Creamy Cheeseburger Macaroni in Just 20 Minutes!

This creamy cheeseburger macaroni is a quick, comforting dish ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey.
  • 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Olive oil works as a substitute.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped; shallots can be used as an alternative.
  • 3 tablespoons Tomato Paste Crushed tomatoes can be substituted.
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Smoked paprika can enhance flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Use fresh onion for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Low-sodium variants can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional; can be omitted.
  • ½ teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust to heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.
For Thickening and Creaminess
  • 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour Cornstarch can be used for gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Can substitute with half-and-half or plant-based milk.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth Vegetable broth works for a lighter taste.
For the Pasta & Cheese
  • 8 ounces Whole Wheat Elbow Macaroni Gluten-free macaroni is also suitable.
  • 1½ cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Mozzarella can be used as a variation.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  2. Add 1 finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon chili powder. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and mix well. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of beef broth, stirring continuously. Allow to bubble gently for 2 minutes.
  5. Add 8 ounces of whole wheat elbow macaroni to the skillet, stir, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
  7. Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

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