This Copycat Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe provides a straightforward, homemade alternative to the boxed version, offering a creamy and savory meal that is well-suited for a quick family dinner. The combination of ground beef, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese results in a complete, satisfying dish made with common pantry ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe replicates the flavor profile of the popular boxed Cheeseburger Macaroni with improved freshness and control over ingredients. It requires minimal preparation time and is completed in a single skillet, which reduces cleanup. The final product delivers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and dairy, suitable for a complete meal.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 cups elbow macaroni
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2 cups beef broth
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1 cup milk
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon mustard powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
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Stir in garlic powder and mustard powder.
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Add beef broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook according to the pasta package instructions, allowing the liquid to absorb as the pasta becomes tender.
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Reduce heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly incorporated.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cooking time: 20 minutes
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Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Pasta Substitute: Shells or rotini may be used in place of elbow macaroni, adjusting cook time accordingly.
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Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
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Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate diced tomatoes, peas, or bell peppers for additional nutrients and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until thoroughly warmed, adding a small amount of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted with minimal flavor variation.
2. Is it possible to use a different cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheddar blend may be used as alternatives.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure the broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
4. Can I use water instead of beef broth?
Yes, though beef broth provides more flavor. Consider adding bouillon or seasoning if using water.
5. How can I make the dish creamier?
Add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or a spoonful of cream cheese when adding the shredded cheese.
6. What type of milk should I use?
Whole milk is recommended for a creamier texture, but any milk can be used based on dietary preferences.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pasta may deteriorate upon reheating.
8. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, using sauté mode for browning and then pressure cooking the pasta with broth for 4-5 minutes before adding cheese.
9. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Lower the heat before adding cheese and stir continuously to ensure even melting.
10. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 1 day in advance and reheat just before serving.
Conclusion
This Copycat Cheeseburger Macaroni offers a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective homemade alternative to packaged versions, with improved control over ingredients and nutritional content. It is an ideal solution for quick meals that meet the expectations of both taste and convenience.
Print
Copycat Cheeseburger Macaroni
This Copycat Cheeseburger Macaroni is a homemade version of the beloved boxed meal, offering a creamy, savory dish that combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese. Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect one-pan dinner that’s hearty, comforting, and made with simple pantry ingredients—ideal for busy weeknights!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon mustard powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion is softened.
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Stir in garlic powder and mustard powder.
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Add beef broth and milk to the skillet, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
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Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, letting the liquid absorb.
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Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.
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Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.
Notes
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Pasta Variations: Swap elbow macaroni with shells, rotini, or any pasta you prefer.
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Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
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Vegetable Boost: Add diced tomatoes, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
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Creamier Option: Add a little extra milk or a spoonful of cream cheese when adding the cheese for a richer texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
