Go Back

Ground Beef Mac 'n' Cheese

There's something truly heartwarming about a bubbling dish of macaroni and cheese, especially when it’s packed with savory ground beef. This Ground Beef Mac 'n' Cheese recipe is not just a meal; it's a delightful trip down memory lane, reminding you of cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a delicious comfort food fix.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Mac 'n' Cheese
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni the classic choice for mac and cheese
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large Saucepan
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a leaner dish!
  3. Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, releasing those delicious aromas.
  4. Step 4: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it's lightly golden.
  5. Step 5: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
  6. Step 6: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Step 7: Combine the cooked macaroni and ground beef mixture in the skillet. Pour the cheesy sauce over the macaroni and beef, stirring well to coat everything.
  8. Step 8: If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
  9. Step 9: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  10. Step 10: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before diving in!

Notes

Leftovers? No problem! Store your Ground Beef Mac ‘n’ Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.