Are you tired of the dinner table battles with your kids? Well, we have the perfect solution for you! Introducing the irresistible Hamburger Mac and Cheese – a one-pot wonder that will have your kids running to the table!
This isn’t your ordinary stovetop mac and cheese. It’s a hearty meal packed with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and savory ground beef. With just the right amount of seasoning, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy even the most ravenous appetites. The best part? It’s ready in just 45 minutes, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Key Takeaways
Why You’ll Love Burger Mac
What sets this Hamburger Mac and Cheese apart from the rest is its sheer convenience. No more complicated recipes or countless pots and pans to clean. This one-pot wonder is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a family-favorite in no time.
Other Recipes to Serve with Hamburger Mac and Cheese
To complement the rich flavors of this dish, we recommend serving it with some delicious side dishes. Our top recommendations are Citrus Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Onion Green Beans. These sides will elevate your meal and have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Let’s talk about the key ingredients that make this Hamburger Mac and Cheese so delectable:
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier, although the choice is yours. Keep in mind that bacon is also part of this recipe.
- Dairy: A creamy cheese sauce is essential for any mac and cheese. We recommend shredding the cheese yourself for maximum meltiness. If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt can be a delicious substitute.
- Pasta: Stick to traditional elbow macaroni, or use any short pasta you have on hand. Medium shells or penne work just as well.
- Seasoning: The secret to this mac and cheese lies in its flavorful cheese sauce. We’ve combined chicken bouillon, onion, mustard, ketchup, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a taste sensation that will leave everyone craving more.
- Bacon: And here’s our secret ingredient – bacon! It’s optional, but trust us, it takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
How to Make Hamburger Mac and Cheese
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering Hamburger Mac and Cheese:
- STEP ONE: Dissolve the bouillon cubes in hot water and set it aside while you cook the ground beef and onions in a large pot.
- STEP TWO: Add the ground beef, bacon, and seasonings to the pot. Give it a good stir and cook until the beef is browned and the bacon is cooked to perfection.
- STEP THREE: Pour the bouillon mixture into the pot and add the pasta. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until the pasta is perfectly al dente.
- STEP FOUR: Stir in the sour cream and cheese until the cheese melts, creating a creamy, irresistible Hamburger Mac and Cheese.
Tips for Success
To ensure the best results, we have a couple of tips for you:
- Dissolve the bouillon fully to avoid any grainy texture in the sauce. Alternatively, you can use bouillon paste like Better Than Bouillon.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions or your personal preference. Different pasta shapes vary in cooking time. If the pasta isn’t fully cooked after 25 minutes, simply add another 1/4 cup of water or chicken broth and cook for a few more minutes.
How do you store and reheat Hamburger Mac and Cheese?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you might need to add a little bit of butter or milk to restore that creamy texture.
Can you put meat in mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Mac and cheese can be taken to the next level by adding various meats. Try ground hamburger, bacon, ground turkey, diced ham, shredded chicken, or even smoked sausage for a delicious protein boost. The possibilities are endless!
Other macaroni recipes you will enjoy:
If you’re a mac and cheese enthusiast, here are some other macaroni recipes that you’ll love:
- Classic Macaroni and Cheese
- Skinny Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese
- 30 Minute Crab Mac and Cheese
- Lightened Up Buffalo Macaroni and Cheese
- Easy Chili Mac Skillet Dinner
Hungry yet? Don’t waste any more time. Get cooking and treat your family to the ultimate comfort food experience with our mouthwatering Hamburger Mac and Cheese!
Remember, for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ.
