Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add Aromatics: Stir in diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Cook the Pasta: Add uncooked macaroni, beef broth, milk, ketchup, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
Serve: Garnish if desired and serve hot.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
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If the skillet thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth before serving.
Variations
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Bacon Cheeseburger: Add cooked, crumbled bacon before the cheese.
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Healthier Swap: Use ground turkey or lean beef and whole wheat pasta.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
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Veggie Boost: Add peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
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Extra Cheesy: Mix in a bit of cream cheese for ultra-creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g