One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy meal that feels like a warm hug from your favorite diner, this One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is about to become your new go-to. Combining savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese all cooked together in one pot means fewer dishes and maximum flavor. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or anytime you want a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With every bite, you get that classic cheeseburger taste in a cozy, easy-to-make form that feels just like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in building the rich, creamy, and flavorful experience that defines this dish. From the hearty beef to the sharp cheddar and the fragrant spices, every item has a part in creating that iconic cheeseburger macaroni you’ll want on repeat.

• 1 lb Ground Beef: Choose lean for less grease or regular for extra flavor — it’s the savory foundation of the dish.
• 2 cups Macaroni Pasta: Classic elbow macaroni works best for capturing that creamy cheese sauce in every bite.
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded: Sharp or mild cheddar adds that perfect melty, cheesy richness.
• 3 cups Beef Broth: Ensures tender pasta and a deep, beefy flavor throughout the dish.
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds subtle tanginess and umami that elevates the cheeseburger taste.
• 1 Onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed, balancing the savory beef.
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder: A quick way to infuse garlic flavor evenly without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and Pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together perfectly.

How to Make One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding your ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon while it browns to ensure even cooking. This step releases all those flavorful juices that set the stage for the entire dish. Once fully browned and no longer pink, drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness while keeping plenty of beefy goodness.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Next, toss the diced onion in and cook it right in the same pot. Stir until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This quick sauté unlocks their natural sweetness and adds layers of flavor that blend beautifully with the beef.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Seasonings

Now, stir in the macaroni pasta, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper all at once. This is where the magic begins — the pasta will absorb those rich liquids and seasonings, soaking up the taste of a classic cheeseburger in every tender bite. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to simmer.

Step 4: Cook Until Pasta is Tender

Cover your pot and let the macaroni cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until it’s al dente. This means it’s cooked through but still has a slight bite, ensuring the texture won’t turn mushy. During this time, the pasta will soak up most of the broth, leaving you with a creamy base perfect for cheese.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Finally, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy. This step transforms the dish into the ultimate One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni, where every forkful is rich, cheesy, and packed with the nostalgic flavors of your favorite diner classic.

How to Serve One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni

Garnishes

A little garnish can make this dish feel extra special. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Crumbled crispy bacon or a few dashes of hot sauce also bring wonderful texture contrasts and heat that complement the cheesy beefiness perfectly.

Side Dishes

While this One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is quite filling on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies balances the richness and adds freshness. Garlic bread or a simple crusty loaf is fantastic for soaking up every bit of the cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the macaroni in individual mini cast iron skillets or bread bowls—both add rustic charm and make it feel like a special occasion. You might even top it with a fried egg or avocado slices for an indulgent finish that’s sure to impress family and guests alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place your leftover One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen as it sits, making it great for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this dish, but keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften a bit upon reheating. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 1 to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the macaroni gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture. Microwaving works too — just stir halfway through and add liquid as needed to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mix of cheeses for different flavor profiles and creaminess.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, the One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni freezes well, though the pasta may become slightly softer after thawing. Adding extra cheese when reheating helps maintain creaminess.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep plenty of flavor.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Try using lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole wheat macaroni, and reduce the amount of cheese to lighten the dish without sacrificing taste.

What sides go best with One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni?

Fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread all pair beautifully, balancing richness and making a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is the kind of comforting, cheesy dish that puts a smile on your face every time. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and satisfies those cravings for classic comfort food with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try, and you just might find yourself making it again and again—because some comforts are just too good to resist.

One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 9 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This comforting One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe combines savory ground beef, tender macaroni pasta, and melted cheddar cheese into a quick and satisfying meal. With minimal cleanup and rich, hearty flavors, it’s a perfect family-friendly dinner that can be prepared on busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 Onion, diced

Pasta and Liquids

• 2 cups Macaroni Pasta
• 3 cups Beef Broth

Cheese and Seasonings

• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Meat: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s no longer pink, drain any excess fat for a leaner dish.
2. Add the Onions: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant, enhancing the dish’s depth of flavor.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the macaroni, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer to cook evenly.
4. Cook the Pasta: Cover the pot and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid, creating a creamy base.
5. Add the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, forming a rich, cheesy sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Your One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is now ready to serve. Enjoy it warm, optionally garnished with extra cheese, herbs, or a sprinkle of black pepper.

Notes

• For a healthier variation, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
• You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms when sautéing onions for added nutrition.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Adjust the amount of Worcestershire sauce and seasoning according to your taste preference.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: One-Pot, Cheeseburger Macaroni, Ground Beef, Macaroni Pasta, Cheddar Cheese, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food