Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese

Name: Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup cream cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup diced onions; 1/2 cup diced pickles; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 2 tablespoons mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the ultimate comfort food with this Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese recipe. Combining creamy, cheesy pasta with all the classic flavors of a juicy cheeseburger, this dish is a delightful twist that will please both kids and adults. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it's a one-pot wonder that brings the best of both worlds to your table.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2025-11-17T07:02:37.819Z

This Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it's an experience. Imagine creamy pasta enveloped in a rich cheesy sauce, infused with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. It’s perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. The best part? It's made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

A Comforting Classic Reimagined

Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese is the perfect marriage of two beloved comfort foods: hearty cheeseburgers and creamy, indulgent mac and cheese. This dish incorporates all the flavors you adore in a classic cheeseburger—juicy beef, sharp cheddar, tangy pickles, and zesty mustard—while maintaining the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese. It’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction, making it a staple in family mealtime rotations.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it also offers a nostalgic sense of warmth and comfort. The combination of textures—from the creamy cheese sauce to the tender macaroni—will evoke memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. Whether you're looking for a dish to enjoy during cozy nights in or at a lively family dinner, Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese never fails to please the palate.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

If you’re short on time but don’t want to sacrifice flavor, this Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese recipe is your go-to solution. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal preparation, this one-pot meal comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love without spending hours in the kitchen.

Moreover, since it’s made in just one pot, clean-up is a breeze! After a long day, the last thing anyone wants is a mountain of dishes. This recipe not only offers a comforting flavor profile but also allows for a more relaxed cooking and dining experience. Enjoy more quality time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Customization at Its Finest

One of the best aspects of Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your family’s preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to sneak in some extra nutrition. The recipe can be easily adjusted to suit any taste palate, ensuring everyone will find something to enjoy.

Additionally, this dish serves as a great base for experimenting with different flavors. Try incorporating smoky bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor, or switch up the cheese to include gouda or pepper jack for a bolder cheese profile. The possibilities are endless, making this comfort dish a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

For the Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup cream cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup diced pickles
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In the same pot, add the ground beef and onions. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cream cheese, milk, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until combined and heated through.

Add Cheese and Pasta

Stir in the cheddar cheese and cooked macaroni. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.

Serve

Top with diced pickles and serve hot. Enjoy your Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese!

For best results, serve immediately and enjoy while hot!

Storage Tips

For those who love meal prepping, this Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese is an excellent dish to make ahead. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to cream up the sauce. This ensures that you'll have a quick, delectable meal ready whenever hunger strikes.

If you’d like to preserve it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion out individual servings in freezer-safe containers, and you can enjoy this savory dish for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you'll have a homemade, comforting meal on standby.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese experience, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. The crispness of greens and the lightness of vegetables create a balanced meal that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the mac and cheese. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for an extra indulgent spread.

Don’t forget about garnishes! Top your Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese with crispy bacon bits, fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick. These finishing touches not only enhance the flavor profile but also add visual appeal, making your dish stand out at the dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta shape will work well.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare it ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.