There’s just something special about a warm, cheesy bowl of cheeseburger macaroni—it’s the kind of easy comfort food that instantly takes you back. If you grew up in the '80s or '90s, you probably remember the classic boxed version. This homemade cheeseburger macaroni delivers all the same nostalgic flavors, but with a fresher, heartier twist—and it comes together in just one skillet!
Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-skillet meal is quick to make, kid-approved, and totally satisfying. Whether you're reliving a childhood favorite or discovering it for the first time, this family-friendly dinner is a recipe you'll want to keep on repeat. Let me know if this brings back memories for you too!
I love one skillet meals because it makes weeknight meals so much easier! If you are looking for more fast meals try my Chicken Burrito Skillet soon!
Ingredients
- ground hamburger meat
- onion
- garlic cloves
- seasoned salt
- broth (beef or chicken)
- pepper
- paprika
- cajun seasoning
- macaroni pasta
- milk
- Colby jack cheese
- sharp cheddar
- parsley
See recipe card for exact quantities.
Instructions
Using a large skillet cook the onion and ground beef together and season with the garlic, and season salt. Drain any excess grease. Add broth and bring to a simmer and to this add pepper, paprika, cajun seasoning and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in milk then add cheeses in small batches and stirring to mix in as it melts. Serve immediately!
- Step 1: Brown meat with onions and season salt
- Step 2: After browning add seasonings, broth and pasta and let simmer
- Step 3: Add cheese and milk once pasta is tender
- Step 4: Stir to combine cheese and serve up that glorious one skillet meal
HINT: Using a sharp cheddar will add a deeper flavor. Adjust seasoning to your liking...I love a little cajun zip to mine!
Substitutions
- Cheese- feel free to switch up the cheese. The classic style is definitely a cheddar base. I like the Colby jack with the sharp cheddar as it seems to melt nicely and has the flavor I like
- Seasonings- if your family does not like onions, leave them out! Add ½ teaspoon of onion powder instead.
Equipment
Every kitchen needs quality cookware. If you do not have a skillet you love then definitely check out my affiliate link HERE.
Weeknight Meal Ideas
Mid Week Treats
Cheeseburger Macaroni
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 Tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced or 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- ½ tablespoon season salt I use Lawrys
- 4 cups beef broth or chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼-½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 2 cups Cheddar medium or sharp
- Top with parsley and seasonings if desired
Instructions
- In a large skillet, season the beef with the onion, garlic and seasoning salt, then brown the ground beef.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain the excess grease. Add in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add in the pepper, paprika and Cajun seasonings and the macaroni and stir.
- Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. Add in the milk and stir. Add in the cheeses in batches and stir until melted. Serve immediately.
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