One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni (Print)

Creamy pasta with seasoned ground beef, tomato, and two cheeses that delivers all the flavors of a cheeseburger in one hearty dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Main ingredients

01 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - Pinch crushed red pepper flakes, optional
07 - Kosher salt
08 - Freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
10 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
11 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
12 - 5 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth
13 - 10 ounces elbow macaroni
14 - 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces)
15 - 4 ounces cream cheese
16 - 1 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves and tender stems, chopped, plus more for garnish (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 6 to 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
02 - Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Add the ground beef and break it into smaller pieces using a large spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6 to 7 minutes.
03 - Stir in the tomato paste and Dijon mustard until well combined.
04 - Pour in the chicken stock and add 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring to a boil, about 6 to 7 minutes. Add elbow macaroni, stirring occasionally, and cook until pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, about 9 to 11 minutes.
05 - Remove the pot from heat. Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese and cream cheese until smooth. Fold in chopped parsley and garnish with additional parsley, if desired.
06 - Transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Everything cooks in a single pot, reducing cleanup and simplifying preparation.
02 - Nostalgic and budget-friendly, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.

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