The Best Hamburger Mac & Cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Satisfy your cravings with this creamy and cheesy Hamburger Mac & Cheese recipe that combines the comforting flavors of classic mac and cheese with the hearty goodness of a juicy hamburger. Loaded with rich cheddar, savory ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is an ultimate family favorite that's easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2025-11-28T11:45:30.560Z

This Hamburger Mac & Cheese is not just a dish; it's a comforting hug on a plate. The melty cheese mixed with savory ground beef creates a mouthwatering flavor combination that will satisfy your cravings.

Comfort Food at Its Best

Hamburger Mac & Cheese is the perfect dish when you're craving something comforting yet satisfying. The rich combination of creamy cheese and savory ground beef elevates your classic mac and cheese to a new level. This dish is designed to please both kids and adults alike, making it a terrific family-friendly option.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your family's preferences or what you have in the pantry. Whether you prefer a mixture of different cheeses, a bit of spice, or even some vegetables thrown in, this dish can accommodate your culinary creativity while still delivering that ultimate comfort food vibe.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best features of Hamburger Mac & Cheese is its adaptability for various occasions. It's an ideal option for weeknight dinners when time is tight yet you want something delicious and filling. This dish also shines at potlucks or family gatherings, where it guarantees that everyone will leave satisfied.

Additionally, Hamburger Mac & Cheese is a crowd-pleaser at game day parties or movie nights. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it perfect for serving alongside finger foods and snacks. Prepare a large batch and watch it disappear as your guests come back for seconds!

Meal Prep Made Easy

If you're on the lookout for convenient meal prep ideas, this Hamburger Mac & Cheese recipe is ideal. You can easily make a large batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. Just store individual servings in airtight containers, and when you're ready to enjoy, reheat them for a quick and easy meal.

Not only does this dish reheat well, but you can also experiment by freezing it for future dinners. If you're someone who enjoys batch cooking, consider making this comforting dish a staple in your meal planning routine. It saves time and ensures you always have a comforting meal at the ready.

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Mac & Cheese

1 lb ground beef
8 oz macaroni pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience!

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about a minute. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens.

Combine Everything

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Add the cooked pasta and ground beef, mixing until well combined.

Serve

Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy your creamy and cheesy Hamburger Mac & Cheese!

Feel free to adjust seasonings to your liking!

Additional Tips for the Perfect Dish

To elevate your Hamburger Mac & Cheese, consider using different varieties of cheese for added depth of flavor. While cheddar is the classic choice, incorporating Monterey Jack or American cheese can also yield a creamier texture. Mixing in a hint of smoked gouda can give the dish an interesting twist, making it even more appealing.

When cooking the ground beef, don't forget to season it well. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a delightful richness. Additionally, always drain the fat after browning the meat to ensure your dish isn’t too greasy, allowing the flavors to shine through beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

While Hamburger Mac & Cheese is delicious on its own, consider serving it with some fresh salad or garlic bread to balance out the richness. A simple side of green beans or a crisp Caesar salad can add freshness to your meal, making it well-rounded and nutritious.

If you want to bring a gourmet touch to your dinner, think about topping your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese before baking it until golden brown. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy base beautifully, taking this comfort food staple to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.