Description
This Comforting Skillet Cheeseburger Macaroni and Cheese combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy macaroni and cheese for a hearty, satisfying meal. Ground beef is cooked and simmered with elbow pasta in a creamy cheese sauce, then finished under the broiler for a golden, bubbly topping with a tangy crunch of pickles and onions.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon water
Cooking
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 8 ounces elbow pasta
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ cups water (divided)
Cheese & Toppings
- 8 ounces American cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup onion, diced (plus extra chopped onions for topping)
- ¼ cup dill pickles, chopped
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt (additional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef with ½ teaspoon salt, pepper, baking soda, and 1 tablespoon water. Mix by hand until well incorporated. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to tenderize.
- Cook the Beef: Heat 1 teaspoon vegetable oil in a large ovenproof skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. Add the beef mixture and break it apart using a spatula. Cook for about 6 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Add Liquid and Pasta: Pour in 1 cup whole milk and 1½ cups water along with uncooked elbow pasta into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Add Cheese and Flavorings: Stir in 1½ cups shredded American cheese, 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar, diced onions, chopped dill pickles, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook on low until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top evenly.
- Broil the Cheese: Preheat your oven broiler, placing the rack about 6 inches from the heating element. Place the skillet under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes or until the cheese on top begins to brown and bubble. Carefully remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with additional chopped onions on top and serve warm for a rich and comforting meal.
Notes
- Using baking soda in the beef mixture helps tenderize the meat and make it juicier.
- Be sure to use an oven-safe skillet for broiling the dish to avoid damage.
- The pickles add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the cheese and beef; adjust quantity to taste.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ground beef.
- Leftovers can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
