Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Bake

Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the best of classic American comfort food with a creamy, cheesy twist. This bake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, and it brings back fond memories of childhood meals shared around the dinner table.

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Origin and History

A Taste of Nostalgia

This dish has roots deeply embedded in American culinary tradition, often serving as a staple in many households during the mid-20th century. It reflects the post-war era's need for quick, satisfying meals that could feed a family without breaking the bank. Variations of macaroni and cheese have existed for centuries, but the addition of ground beef and the bake method transformed it into a one-dish wonder.

Unique Ingredients and Flavors

Layered Comfort

The beauty of Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Bake lies in its simplicity and the harmony of flavors. The combination of tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and an indulgent blend of cheeses creates a rich, creamy texture that envelops each bite. Add in some diced tomatoes for a hint of acidity and spices that elevate the dish to new heights.

Cooking Techniques

The magic happens when you layer the ingredients—cooking the pasta just until al dente ensures it doesn’t turn mushy during baking. Browning the beef with onions and garlic adds depth, while a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top provides that satisfying crunch. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that makes this dish not just a meal, but an experience to savor.

In essence, Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Bake is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, inviting you to gather around and indulge in its delightful comfort.

Prep Time 30 mins

Cook Time 30 mins

Rest Time 30 mins

Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Cuisine: American

Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner

Cooking Temp: 350 F

Servings: 6

Estimated Cost: 10

Calories: 450 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

This Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Bake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and a gooey cheese topping for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Bake

1 pound ground beef (Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.)
2 cups elbow macaroni (You can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.)
1 small onion, chopped (Yellow or white onion works best for flavor.)
2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma.)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) (Choose fire-roasted for extra depth of flavor.)
1 can cheddar cheese soup (10.5 oz) (This adds creaminess and flavor.)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Feel free to mix with mozzarella for a different taste.)
1/2 cup milk (Use whole milk for richness, or a plant-based milk if preferred.)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (This adds a lovely herbal note.)
1/2 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste.)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly cracked is always better.)
1/2 cup bread crumbs (Panko works great for a crunchy topping.)

Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

1
Cook the MacaroniIn a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make sure not to overcook the macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Cooking the Beef Mixture

2
Brown the Ground BeefIn a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain excess fat if there's too much; you want a bit for flavor, but not a greasy dish!
3
Add AromaticsStir in chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
The aroma of the garlic and onion will elevate your dish—don't rush this step!
4
Season the MixtureSprinkle in the salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine and let the flavors meld for another minute.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste; this is where you can make it your own!

Combining Ingredients

5
Mix Everything TogetherIn a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni, beef mixture, diced tomatoes (with juices), and half of the shredded cheese.
Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid breaking the pasta.
6
Add the Creamy ElementStir in the heavy cream or milk to create a creamy texture throughout the mixture. Make sure everything is well-coated.
You can adjust the creaminess by adding more or less milk based on your preference.

Baking the Dish

7
Transfer to Baking DishPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
Greasing the dish will help prevent sticking; don't skip this step!
8
Top with CheeseSprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture.
For an extra crispy top, consider adding a handful of breadcrumbs mixed with a dash of melted butter.
9
Bake Until GoldenBake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Keep an eye on it to avoid burning; every oven is a little different!

Serving the Dish

10
Let it RestOnce out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set a bit.
Trust me, this little wait will make serving much easier!
11
Garnish and ServeServe warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and enjoy the delightful cheesy goodness!
A side salad or steamed veggies pairs wonderfully with this dish for a balanced meal.

Note

Use a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a perfect melty texture and rich flavor.
For added depth, sauté onions and garlic with the ground beef before combining with pasta.
Consider adding diced bell peppers or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture.
Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese over the dish before baking.
Ensure to let the bake sit for about 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.

Keywords: cheesy, macaroni, hamburger, bake, comfort food

Read it online: https://bestrecipesblog.com/recipe/cheesy-hamburger-macaroni-bake/