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This cheeseburger macaroni brings together the best parts of your favorite comfort meals into one rich skillet dinner. Tender pasta soaked in a creamy cheese sauce with seasoned beef and a Tex Mex twist makes it a true weeknight hero.
I first made this on a busy school night when I needed something quick. The kids cleaned their plates and now it’s a weekly request without fail.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni gives that classic comfort bite and holds the sauce perfectly
- Ground beef adds a rich savory base use lean beef for less grease
- Taco seasoning infuses bold flavor choose a mild blend for the whole family
- Rotel tomatoes with chilies offer zesty depth and a touch of spice
- Tomato paste adds richness and boosts the umami layer
- Beef broth creates a deep meaty flavor chicken broth works in a pinch
- Bacon provides crunch and smoky contrast totally optional but amazing
- Butter and flour for a roux essential for a velvety cheese sauce
- Milk and heavy cream give the sauce its signature silky texture
- Cheddar cheese offers sharpness and melty goodness shred fresh for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon and Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat cook chopped bacon until crispy then transfer to a plate. Add ground beef to the same pan and break it up with a spatula as it browns. Cook until no longer pink.
- Season and Add Tomatoes
- Sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir to coat the beef. Pour in the Rotel tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to bring the flavors together.
- Simmer with Broth and Pasta
- Add beef broth to the pan and bring to a boil. Stir in macaroni and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about ten minutes until the pasta is tender but still firm.
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan melt butter and whisk in flour to create a smooth roux. Slowly add milk and cream whisking constantly until thickened. Add shredded cheddar and stir until completely melted and creamy.
- Combine and Finish
- Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and beef mixture. Fold in half of the crispy bacon and half of the remaining cheese. Stir gently. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese and bacon on top then cover and let sit for a few minutes so the cheese melts into a gooey layer.
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I especially love the rich cheddar flavor that comes through in every bite. The first time I made this we ate it straight from the pan standing at the stove and laughing. That moment stuck with me ever since.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to five days. For longer storage freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of ground beef try ground turkey or chicken. You can replace heavy cream with half and half or whole milk for a lighter version. For a meatless twist use lentils or plant based crumbles and swap bacon for smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
This dish goes great with a crisp salad like iceberg wedges or tangy coleslaw. Roasted green beans or garlicky mushrooms round out the meal nicely. For a classic vibe serve with pickle slices and toasted buns on the side.
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Cultural Context
Cheeseburger macaroni was born from the fusion of classic American diner flavors with the convenience of skillet pasta. It mirrors dishes like hamburger helper that families have relied on for generations but with a homemade twist that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for cheeseburger macaroni?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but any small pasta like shells or rotini will work well to hold the cheese sauce.
- → Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken are great alternatives and will still soak up the seasoning beautifully.
- → How spicy is the dish with Rotel tomatoes?
The spice level depends on the variety of Rotel you use—mild for family-friendly meals or hot for extra heat.
- → Is it necessary to make a roux for the cheese sauce?
Yes, the roux made from butter and flour thickens the cheese sauce, giving it a rich, velvety texture.
- → How should I reheat leftovers for best results?
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture.
- → Can I freeze cheeseburger macaroni?
Absolutely. Cool completely, portion into containers or bags, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw before reheating.