Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Skillet

If comfort food had a star player, the Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Skillet would be right at the top of the list. Combining the juicy, savory goodness of ground beef with creamy, melty cheese and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in one pan. It’s an easy, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend indulgences. Bonus: it’s packed with flavors that remind you of a classic cheeseburger but with that extra cheesy, pasta twist.

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about a recipe that blends two all-time favorites into one? The Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Skillet is more than just a mashup; it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to make and endlessly satisfying. It’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is a breeze—always a win in my book. Plus, the Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle tang that elevates the beef, while the combo of cheddar and mozzarella creates the perfect cheesy melt. This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for feeding hungry families or meal prepping for the week ahead.

What Goes Into Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Skillet

• 1 pound ground beef – Choose lean or medium fat for flavor and juiciness.
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni – The classic pasta shape for mac and cheese.
• 2 cups beef broth – Adds depth to the dish and cooks the pasta perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp and flavorful, the backbone of the cheese blend.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that gooey, stretchy texture.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami and complements the beef beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds subtle aromatic warmth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes – Adds a fresh pop of color and acidity.
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions – For a mild, crisp onion flavor and garnish.
• Turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional) – A crunchy, smoky garnish that takes it to the next level.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large skillet or sauté pan – A 10-12 inch skillet works best for cooking the beef and pasta together.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring without scratching your pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To keep seasoning and liquids on point.
• Cheese grater – Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
• Colander (optional) – If you prefer to rinse the pasta before mixing.

Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Skillet: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Add the Pasta and Broth

Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth. Stir to combine everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the broth and cook through.

Step 3: Stir in Worcestershire Sauce and Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed, stir in the Worcestershire sauce. Then add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, folding them gently into the pasta and beef mixture. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add Fresh Tomatoes and Green Onions

Fold in the diced tomatoes and chopped green onions, reserving a small amount for garnish. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the hearty skillet.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

If you’re using turkey bacon, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled pieces on top for a smoky crunch. Finish with the remaining green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness straight from the skillet!

No-Store Runs Needed

• Ground beef is a staple in most kitchens and freezes well for future use.
• Elbow macaroni and beef broth are pantry essentials you likely have on hand.
• Shredded cheese can be swapped with any cheese blend you have.
• Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder are great for boosting flavor without extra effort.
• Frozen diced tomatoes or canned tomatoes drained can be substituted if fresh aren’t available.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

If your pasta isn’t tender after simmering, add a splash more beef broth or water, cover, and cook a few minutes longer. Overcooked pasta will become mushy, so keep an eye on texture.

Too salty? Add a splash of milk or cream to mellow the flavors and balance saltiness.

If the cheese isn’t melting smoothly, reduce the heat and stir gently until creamy. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from separating or becoming stringy.

If the dish is dry, a little extra broth or a spoonful of sour cream stirred in will bring back moisture and creaminess.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Leftover Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Skillet can be refreshed with a sprinkle of fresh cheese and green onions after reheating.

Ask the Chef

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well and make this dish a bit lighter. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to keep the bold flavors, and you might want to add a bit more Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni? Can I use other pasta shapes?

Feel free to swap elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it might vary slightly depending on the size and shape.

Is there a way to make this recipe creamier without adding heavy cream?

Yes! Using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses ensures great creaminess. You can also add a splash of milk or even a dollop of plain yogurt stirred in at the end for extra richness without heaviness.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a protein boost. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian-friendly version.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Love cheese sauce? Try my Pourable Nacho Cheese Sauce for a melty, spicy twist on cheesy dips and toppings.
• If you enjoy skillet meals, the Caramelized Onion And Bacon Skillet Dip is another must-try for game nights and parties.
• For a pasta twist, check out one-pot creamy tomato basil pasta meals that are equally quick and comforting.
• Try adding different mix-ins like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even jalapeños to customize the flavor and heat level.

Bring It Home

This Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Skillet is the perfect example of comfort and convenience joining forces. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cheesy and satisfying, this skillet has got you covered. The rich flavors meld together seamlessly, and the one-pan method means less fuss and more flavor in every bite. Make it your own by adding your favorite toppings or mix-ins, and enjoy a classic meal with a delicious twist.

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