Dinner

Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese – Easy and Creamy Recipe

Byluca Carter August 12, 2026August 12, 2026

Introduction

Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy seasoned ground beef with tender macaroni and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This hearty and cheesy dish is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

A black skillet filled with a creamy macaroni and ground beef casserole, showing three main layers: a bottom layer of soft yellow macaroni noodles, a middle layer of crumbled brown cooked ground beef mixed evenly among the pasta, and a top layer covered with melted golden-yellow cheddar cheese sprinkled with small green herbs and black pepper. Around the skillet, a wooden cutting board sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth with black stripes nearby, and blurred side dishes include slices of pickles and a bowl of chopped green lettuce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil

½ small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp yellow mustard

½ tsp paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Diced pickles or green onions (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add the ground beef and garlic. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking the beef apart, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, then set aside.

Step 5: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Step 6: Gradually whisk in the milk and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened.
Step 7: Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and creamy.

Step 8: Add the cooked macaroni and seasoned beef to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until well combined.
Step 9: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Cover for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts, or place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes for a golden finish.
Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley and diced pickles or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
Add crispy bacon, caramelized onions, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
For a tangier taste, increase the amount of mustard and ketchup slightly.

To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred for a dietary variation.

Storage

Store leftover Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, though the cheese sauce may be slightly less creamy after thawing.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a cast iron pan filled with baked macaroni and cheese mixed with ground beef, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is pale yellow macaroni pasta, the middle layer consists of small chunks of browned beef, and the top layer is melted, bright orange cheddar cheese sprinkled with green herbs and black pepper. The pan rests on a wooden board with a white cloth with blue stripes nearby, and in the blurred background, there are bowls of green peas and white plate with pickles on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute or add cheeses like mozzarella, Colby, or pepper jack to customize the flavor and creaminess of your dish.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version that retains the cheesy, comforting qualities of the dish.