When you’re craving the hearty flavors of a cheeseburger but want something even more comforting and easy to serve a crowd, nothing beats Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese. This creamy, beefy casserole combines two classic favorites — juicy ground beef and gooey mac and cheese — into one unforgettable one-dish meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or just a cozy family dinner, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re hunting for new ground beef casserole recipes, love the idea of one dish meals, or just want a fresh take on hamburger recipes, this dish hits all the right notes. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this cheesy comfort food classic!

Save

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

First and foremost, Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese is the ultimate in comfort food. The creamy, cheesy sauce wraps perfectly around tender pasta and savory ground beef, creating a rich and satisfying dish that both kids and adults love.

Moreover, it’s a one-dish meal, meaning minimal cleanup after dinner — always a win. Plus, it’s highly customizable. You can spice it up, add veggies, toss in baked bacon for a bacon cheeseburger twist, or make it extra cheesy to suit your taste.

In addition, it’s affordable and uses pantry staples, making it one of the best beef casserole recipes to keep in your meal rotation. If you love hearty, nostalgic meals that bring everyone to the table, this cheeseburger mac is for you!

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to create your cheesy, beefy masterpiece:

• 1 pound ground beef (85/15 for best flavor)
• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup milk (whole preferred)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: cooked baked bacon, chopped
• Optional: chopped pickles or green onions for garnish

Tip: Freshly shredded cheese melts much better than pre-shredded varieties!

Essential Kitchen Equipment

You won’t need much for this easy dinner:

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl (optional, for cheese sauce)

Simple tools mean simple prep and cleanup — just another reason this Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese is a favorite!

How to Make Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese: Step-by-Step Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or cooking spray.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese, milk, ketchup, and mustard. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Fold in the cooked pasta and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.

Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with a generous sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese.

Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden.

For extra flair, top with chopped baked bacon, pickles, or green onions before serving.

Save

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

Even though this dish is easy, a few mistakes can impact the final result. Firstly, avoid overcooking the pasta. Remember, it will bake further, so al dente is key.

Secondly, don’t skimp on seasoning. Ground beef needs a good amount of salt and pepper to stand out against the cheese sauce.

Also, resist the urge to overbake. Baking just until the cheese melts and bubbles keeps the dish creamy, not dry.

Lastly, use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

Want your Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese to be absolutely perfect? Follow these pro tips:

• Mix cheeses: Use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor.
• Use good beef: Lean but not too lean ground beef (around 85/15) gives the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Season beef well: Don’t rely only on the cheese — flavor the beef properly while cooking.
• Layer extra cheese: Adding cheese between the pasta and on top ensures gooey, cheesy goodness throughout.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking before serving for cleaner slices.

These little details make a huge difference!

Delicious Variations for Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

Love changing things up? Here are some mouthwatering variations:

• Bacon Cheeseburger Mac: Stir chopped baked bacon into the beef mixture.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in peas, corn, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Double Cheese: Swap in pepper jack, Swiss, or provolone along with cheddar.
• Dill Pickle Twist: Stir diced dill pickles into the casserole before baking for a tangy kick.

With these creative ideas, you’ll never get bored of this satisfying meal!

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

Presentation matters, even for hearty comfort food! Here are some easy ideas:

• Serve with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh pop of color.
• Add a small drizzle of extra ketchup and mustard on top for a true cheeseburger feel.
• Dish into individual ramekins for a fun party or potluck option.
• Pair with pickle spears and chips for a playful burger-and-fries experience.

Simple touches like these make even a humble casserole feel special.

How to Store and Reheat Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

If you have leftovers — lucky you! Here’s how to keep them perfect:

• Store cooled casserole in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat gently, stirring midway. Or reheat the whole dish in a 300°F oven, covered with foil.

If the casserole seems dry after reheating, add a splash of milk or a sprinkle of extra cheese before warming.

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese

Complete your meal with these easy sides:

• Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• Grilled or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
• Classic coleslaw for a cool, crunchy contrast
• Potato wedges or roasted fries for a full comfort meal

These sides balance the richness of the casserole while making dinner even more satisfying.

Save

Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese FAQs

Can I make Cheeseburger Mac ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if baking cold.

Can I freeze Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese?
Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Can I use different pasta?
Of course! Shells, penne, or rotini all work great.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild cheesy flavor and familiar hamburger taste make it a hit with kids.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check that your condiments (like mustard) are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy, cheesy, beefy, and downright comforting, this Cheeseburger Mac And Cheese is the one-dish meal dreams are made of. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the biggest appetites, simple enough for any weeknight, and customizable enough to please every palate.

Make this easy casserole tonight and watch it disappear! Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family, and subscribe for more ground beef casserole recipes, cheesy one-dish meals, and easy comfort food you’ll love! 🍔🧀🍝✨

Print