Hamburger Macaroni Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hamburger Macaroni Pasta
If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that brings back childhood memories, then Hamburger Macaroni Pasta is your answer! This dish combines tender elbow macaroni with savory ground beef, creating a deliciously creamy concoction that warms the heart and fills the belly. Ideal for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
A Personal Story Behind My Hamburger Macaroni Pasta Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals, and Hamburger Macaroni Pasta was a staple. My mom would whip it up quickly after a long day, and the comforting aroma would fill the house. It was always a hit, especially on chilly evenings, and I fondly remember the laughter and stories shared over bowls of this delicious dish. Now, I love making it for my own family, passing down the tradition of warmth and connection through food.
What Makes This Hamburger Macaroni Pasta Recipe Special?
What sets this Hamburger Macaroni Pasta apart is its creamy texture and rich flavor profile. The combination of ground beef with a medley of cheeses and a touch of mustard and ketchup creates a unique savory taste that’s both nostalgic and modern. Plus, it’s all cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze! This recipe is not only easy to make but also allows for creativity—feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables.
The Full Hamburger Macaroni Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the macaroni to cook and absorb most of the liquid.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, add the heavy cream, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dijon mustard, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. This is where the magic happens!
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors. This step enhances the overall taste.
- Serve the beef and macaroni skillet hot. Enjoy your meal and the wonderful flavors of this comfort dish!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hamburger Macaroni Pasta
This Hamburger Macaroni Pasta is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it further with some simple additions. Consider topping it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. A side salad or some steamed vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to this rich dish. If you want to spice things up, try adding some diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during cooking for a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Macaroni Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta you have on hand, such as penne or shells.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to bring back its creamy texture.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Of course! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. It will still be delicious!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 4
Hamburger Macaroni Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet Used for cooking the beef and pasta.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1 4 cup heavy cream
- 1 3 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Stir in elbow macaroni, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until macaroni is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add heavy cream, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dijon mustard, ketchup, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Remove skillet from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve the beef and macaroni skillet hot and enjoy!