Cheeseburger Macaroni Dinner (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta Base
01 -
8 ounces elbow macaroni
02 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
03 -
4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
04 -
1 pound lean ground beef
05 -
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
06 -
1 can (10 ounces) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
07 -
2 tablespoons tomato paste
08 -
2 cups beef broth
→ Cheese Sauce
09 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
11 -
1 cup whole milk
12 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
13 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. Add ground beef to the same skillet and brown, breaking it apart.
02 -
Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, and tomato paste with the browned beef. Mix thoroughly to combine flavors.
03 -
Pour in beef broth and bring mixture to a boil. Add elbow macaroni, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
04 -
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, then gradually add milk and cream, whisking until thickened. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
05 -
Pour cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and beef mixture. Add half of the cooked bacon and stir to combine. Top with remaining cheddar and bacon. Cover until cheese melts.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
For a thicker cheese sauce, simmer until the sauce coats the back of a spoon and stays separated when a finger is run through it.
02 -
Use mild Rotel for a kid-friendly version, or hot for added heat.
03 -
Add diced onions with the beef if desired for extra flavor.