If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you absolutely must try this One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe. It brings together all the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger — juicy beef, crispy bacon, tangy pickles, and gooey cheddar cheese — in one easy, satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding the family after a long day or want a no-fuss meal to impress friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers flavor without complicated cleanup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe lies in its straightforward, everyday ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in layering the flavors, building texture, and adding that classic cheeseburger charm. From the smoky bacon pieces to the savory beef broth, these essentials come together to create magic in your pot.
- Bacon strips: Cut into small pieces to add a crispy, smoky crunch.
- Lean ground beef: The protein base that makes this dish hearty and filling.
- Onion: Chopped finely to bring subtle sweetness and depth.
- Tomato paste: Adds richness and umami, enhancing the sauce’s body.
- Tomato ketchup: For a touch of tangy sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- Yellow mustard: Injects that classic cheeseburger bite to the flavor profile.
- Garlic powder: A quick way to boost aromatic depth without overpowering.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity with subtle savory and slightly sweet undertones.
- Beef broth: The liquid base that cooks and flavors the macaroni beautifully.
- Uncooked elbow macaroni: Perfect for soaking up all those luscious juices and cheese.
- Grated cheddar cheese: The star of the dish, melting into creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Chopped pickles (optional): A sharp, tangy finish that mimics the classic cheeseburger topping.
How to Make One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Crisp up the bacon
Start by cutting the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears – it saves time and effort. Fry the bacon in a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it’s crispy and golden, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate but leave all those flavorful bacon drippings in the pot. These drippings form the base of rich flavor for your dish.
Step 2: Brown the beef and onion
Next, add the lean ground beef and chopped onion into the pot. Cook them together over medium heat, breaking up the beef with your spoon so it browns evenly. This step typically takes around 8 minutes and it’s crucial as it builds the savory foundation of your dish. After browning, spoon out most of the excess fat to keep the meal delicious but not greasy.
Step 3: Add the flavor boosters
Now it’s time to stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. This combination creates that iconic cheeseburger sauce everyone loves. Turn the heat up to high and bring the mixture to a boil. The aromas right now will have you excited for the next steps!
Step 4: Cook the macaroni to tender perfection
Once boiling, add your uncooked elbow macaroni straight into the pot. Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer (medium heat works well), and let your macaroni cook uncovered until it becomes tender and most of the broth is absorbed. This usually takes about 13 to 15 minutes. Make sure to stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Melt in the cheesy, bacony goodness
Take the pot off the heat and stir in most of the grated cheddar cheese along with the crispy bacon pieces you set aside earlier (reserve some bacon and cheese for topping, if you like). Season with salt and pepper to your taste, then let the dish rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to melt completely and the flavors to mingle beautifully. If you prefer a cheesy crust on top, stir in 3/4 of the cheese and sprinkle the rest over the surface before covering the pot for a few minutes to melt.
Step 6: Serve up with the final touches
Finally, serve your One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni with a generous sprinkle of chopped pickles if you want that perfect tangy contrast. This optional step really makes it feel like you’re enjoying a cheeseburger in pasta form!
How to Serve One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
Garnishes
A quick topping of additional crispy bacon pieces and fresh chopped pickles will add crunch and freshness. Some folks love a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives to brighten each bite. These little touches elevate the dish and make it feel customized and extra special.
Side Dishes
Though this dish is a hearty meal on its own, you can pair it with a light side to balance the richness. Consider a simple green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or some steamed green beans with garlic. Crispy oven-baked fries or a fresh coleslaw also complement the cheeseburger flavors perfectly, creating a nostalgic diner-style feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the macaroni in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins so each guest gets a perfectly cheesy portion. You could even top it with a fried egg for a decadent brunch option. If you’re feeding a crowd, bake the finished macaroni in a casserole dish with extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a delicious lunch or dinner reheated the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well too. Portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the macaroni gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth, milk, or water if it seems dry to restore its creamy texture. Stir frequently to evenly distribute heat and keep that cheese beautifully melted.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works great, you can swap it for small shells, penne, or even rotini. Just keep an eye on cooking times as some pastas may cook faster or slower.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef and bacon with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty mushrooms like cremini or portobello for a similar savory flavor and texture.
Can I make this One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe spicier?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce when adding the seasonings. This will give it a nice kick without overpowering the classic cheeseburger flavor.
What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Cheddar is ideal for its sharp, melty quality, but you can use Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a mild mozzarella if preferred. Just pick a cheese that melts smoothly for the best texture.
Can I prepare any of these steps ahead of time?
You can crisp the bacon and brown the beef mixture ahead and refrigerate them separately. Then when ready, combine everything and finish cooking with the liquids and pasta for a quick dinner.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe is a true joy to prepare and eat. It’s one of those meals that makes you feel cozy and satisfied with every spoonful. If you want an easy dinner that tastes like a nostalgic favorite but comes together with minimal fuss, this recipe is waiting for you. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is a comforting and flavorful dish combining crispy bacon, savory ground beef, and tender elbow macaroni all cooked together in one pot. Infused with classic cheeseburger flavors from tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, and cheddar cheese, it’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 4 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
Condiments and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pantry
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears for ease. Add the bacon pieces to a soup pot or Dutch oven and fry over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
- Brown the beef and onions: Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook, breaking the beef up with a spoon, until browned and onions are softened, about 8 minutes. Spoon out most of the excess fat from the pot.
- Add flavorings and broth: Stir in the tomato paste, tomato ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the pasta: Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to maintain a rapid simmer and cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 13-15 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
- Add cheese and bacon: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and cooked bacon pieces, reserving some bacon for topping if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to absorb more liquid and meld flavors. For a cheesy top layer, stir in 3/4 of the cheese, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and cover to help it melt.
- Serve: Serve the cheeseburger macaroni hot, optionally topped with the reserved cooked bacon and chopped pickles for added flavor and crunch.
Notes
- Use kitchen shears to quickly cut bacon into small pieces before cooking.
- Adjust the salt carefully, as bacon and cheese already add saltiness.
- Stir frequently when cooking pasta to avoid it sticking to the pot.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use vegetable broth, substituting ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
