Loaded Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef Recipe

Introduction

Loaded Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty twist on a classic favorite. Creamy cheese sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and savory seasoned ground beef come together for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 onion (diced)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ pound elbow macaroni
• ¼ cup salted butter
• 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• ⅓ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: While the macaroni cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking up the beef as it cooks, until no longer pink.
3. Step 3: Drain excess fat from the beef, then return the skillet to the heat. Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Step 4: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, cooking for about 1 minute to create a roux.
5. Step 5: Slowly pour in the milk, stirring continuously to blend smoothly. Add the parmesan and cheddar cheeses, stirring until all the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni and seasoned ground beef into the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Tips & Variations

• Use extra sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• For a creamier texture, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
• Top with breadcrumbs and bake in the oven for 10 minutes at 375°F for a crunchy topping.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils for protein instead.

Loaded Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 60 reviews

This Loaded Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef is a hearty and comforting dish combining creamy cheese sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and flavorful seasoned ground beef. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner, this recipe balances rich sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses with savory spices for a classic twist on mac and cheese.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef Mixture

• 1 onion, diced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

Pasta

• ½ pound elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• ¼ cup salted butter
• 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• ⅓ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the Beef: Return the drained beef to the skillet over the burner and stir in chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and onion powder evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute without browning.
5. Add Milk and Cheese: Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens slightly. Add the parmesan and sharp cheddar cheeses and stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine All Components: Add the cooked macaroni noodles and seasoned ground beef into the cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients uniformly. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Use sharp cheddar cheese for a robust flavor; mild cheddar can be substituted but the taste will be less intense.
• Drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef to avoid a greasy final dish.
• Stir the cheese sauce continuously to avoid lumps.
• The dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.

Keywords: mac and cheese, ground beef, cheesy pasta, comfort food, quick dinner, family meal