Are you looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that will please the whole family? Look no further than this homemade Macaroni Cheese and Beef recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and under 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a tasty and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Key Takeaways
An Easy Weeknight Favorite
This Macaroni Cheese and Beef recipe is a go-to dinner option for busy nights when you haven’t had time to plan ahead. It’s a one-pot meal made with ingredients you probably already have on hand, making it both convenient and budget-friendly.
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
Forget the boxed versions, this homemade Macaroni Cheese and Beef is so much better. With real cheese and a savory, cheesy sauce, it’s a step up from the store-bought alternatives. You can even customize the recipe to your liking by adding your favorite spices or veggies.
What You’ll Need
To make this delicious Macaroni Cheese and Beef recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pasta: Cavatappi noodles or elbow macaroni work best, but feel free to use any small pasta shape you have on hand.
- Lean ground beef: You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Milk: Add richness to the dish without the extra calories of heavy cream.
- Hot water: You can use beef or chicken broth for added flavor, but water works just fine.
- Cheese: Medium cheddar cheese gives it that classic Macaroni Cheese taste, but you can experiment with other melty cheeses for a twist.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce slightly and gives it a silky texture.
- Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and a hint of sugar for balance.
How to Make Macaroni Cheese and Beef
Making this homemade Macaroni Cheese and Beef recipe is a breeze. Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet or pot. Once it’s cooked, add the spices and cornstarch to coat the meat before adding the hot water or broth, milk, and pasta. Bring everything to a boil, then cover and simmer until the pasta is tender.
Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top and stir until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. Give it a couple of minutes to thicken slightly, and then it’s ready to serve. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to ensure your Macaroni Cheese and Beef turns out perfectly:
- Customize it: Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, green beans, or any other veggies to the recipe for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving gives the cheese sauce a chance to set up and thicken slightly.
- Pasta options: Don’t hesitate to switch up the pasta type. Shells, macaroni, or any small pasta will work just fine.
- Healthier options: Use ground turkey, chicken, or gluten-free pasta if you want a lighter and healthier version.
What to Serve with Macaroni Cheese and Beef
This hearty Macaroni Cheese and Beef dish pairs well with a fresh spinach salad or a crisp green salad. You can also serve it alongside green vegetables like green beans or roasted broccoli for a well-rounded meal. For a sweet touch, a fruit salad with marshmallows or an orange jello dessert will be a hit with everyone at the table.
More Easy Dinner Recipes to Try
If you’re looking for more delicious and easy dinner ideas, give these recipes a try:
- Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Instant Pot Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes
- Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Tex-Mex Doritos Taco Salad
Conclusion
This homemade Macaroni Cheese and Beef recipe is a winner when it comes to quick and tasty weeknight meals. With its rich and cheesy flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. So, why not give it a try and add it to your dinner rotation? You won’t be disappointed!
This recipe is brought to you by Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ.
