Here’s a rich and hearty Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef—comfort food at its finest 🧀🥩🍝
🧀🥩 Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese with Ground Beef
Ingredients (serves 4–6)
- 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Cook pasta
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the beef
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté 3–4 minutes until soft. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Make the cheese sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk (and cream, if using) until smooth.
- Stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar until melted. Adjust seasoning.
- Combine pasta and beef
- Mix cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and cheese sauce in a large bowl or directly in the baking dish.
- Assemble & top
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle extra cheddar and breadcrumbs on top, if desired.
- Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve
- Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Extra cheesy: Mix cheddar with mozzarella or Gruyère.
- Spicy twist: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Veggie boost: Add peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Make-ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving (add 5–10 minutes to bake time).
If you want, I can also give a one-pan stove-to-oven version that’s faster and just as creamy, perfect for busy weeknights.
Do you want me to do that?
