From time to time, I like to try new pasta dishes, but nothing in my kitchen is as simple and satisfying as this classic mac and cheese with a meaty twist. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for any day when you crave something warm and delicious. Ground Beef Mac and Cheese is one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell amazing and fills your heart with comfort. Creamy, cheesy pasta mixed with savory ground beef is a combination that always brings smiles at the table. 

I have always loved dishes that are easy to make but taste like they took hours to prepare. I use a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese to get the perfect creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor. Always make sure the cheese is fresh, as it makes a huge difference in the final dish. The ground beef is browned just right, keeping it juicy and flavorful without making the dish greasy.

You can serve Ground Beef Mac and Cheese as a standalone meal for dinner, some fresh green salad on the side, also with garlic bread for a complete, comforting plate. It’s versatile enough to be a family favorite, a potluck contribution, or even a simple weeknight dinner that everyone loves.

It’s Perfect For:

• Cozy family dinners on a chilly evening
• Quick weeknight meals that require little prep
• Feeding a group at casual parties or gatherings
• Comfort food cravings after a long day
• Lunchboxes or meal prep for the week

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using breadcrumbs)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or frying pan for cooking ground beef and onions
• Saucepan for making the cheese sauce
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater
• Baking dish (optional if you want a breadcrumb topping)

How to Make Ground Beef Mac and Cheese

Step 1

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2

Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for another 2–3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 3

Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a smooth roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.

Step 4

Add cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5

Combine pasta and beef: Add the cooked macaroni and browned beef mixture to the cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness and the beef is evenly distributed.

Step 6

Optional breadcrumb topping: If you want a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and toast breadcrumbs until golden brown. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese, then bake for 10–12 minutes until the top is lightly crispy.

Step 7

Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese into a serving dish. Serve hot for a comforting, hearty meal. The cheese sauce will be creamy, the beef flavorful, and the optional breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Mac and Cheese

• Always cook your pasta just until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce. Drain and toss lightly with butter to stop sticking.
• Brown the beef thoroughly in medium heat. It locks in flavor and avoids watery meat in the final dish. Break it up evenly as it cooks.
• Use a combination of cheeses for the sauce. Sharp cheddar gives flavor, while Parmesan adds a nutty richness. Stir slowly to avoid clumps.
• Season your sauce carefully. Salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika bring depth. Taste as you go to balance flavors.
• Don’t overmix pasta with sauce. Fold gently to coat every piece without breaking it. This keeps a creamy texture.
• Optional breadcrumb topping makes it special. Toast breadcrumbs in olive oil until golden, then sprinkle over the top before baking for a crunchy layer.
• Make ahead if needed. You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and bake before serving. It keeps the flavors fresh.

Optional Ingredients

• Garlic powder for extra aroma in the sauce
• Red pepper flakes for a mild kick
• Cream cheese for ultra-creamy texture
• Mustard powder for a subtle tang
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Diced tomatoes for added color and freshness

How to Serve Ground Beef Mac and Cheese

I love serving Ground Beef Mac and Cheese straight from the stove when it’s piping hot. I usually spoon it into a large serving bowl, letting the creamy cheese stretch and pull a little as I serve. It makes the dish look extra inviting, and the aroma fills the kitchen in a way that always makes everyone’s mouth water. I like to place it on the table with a few colorful napkins, making it feel like a special meal even on a simple weeknight.

I sometimes pair it with a simple green salad or a mix of fresh vegetables with a light vinaigrette. The crisp freshness balances the richness of the cheese sauce perfectly. I also enjoy adding a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables for texture and extra flavor. Sometimes I sprinkle a little fresh parsley or extra cheese on top just before serving—it makes the dish look beautiful and adds a tiny burst of flavor.

I enjoy presenting it in a baking dish with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping whenever I’m serving guests. It makes the meal feel more special, almost restaurant-quality, while still being home-cooked. I often encourage everyone to serve themselves so they can see all the layers of creamy pasta, savory beef, and melted cheese. It’s satisfying to watch people dig in, and I love seeing the smiles when they taste that first cheesy, hearty bite.

Is Ground Beef Mac and Cheese Healthy?

Ground Beef Mac and Cheese can be a balanced meal if enjoyed in moderation. It provides protein from beef, calcium from cheese, and energy from pasta.

However, it’s also rich in fat and calories, so pairing it with vegetables or a salad is a good idea. Using lean ground beef and low-fat milk can make it a slightly lighter dish without losing the creamy, comforting taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheesy Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon pieces to the ground beef mixture. Bake with extra cheddar on top for a smoky, rich twist.
• Spicy Jalapeño Mac: Mix diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce. Adds a mild heat that contrasts beautifully with creamy cheese.
• Veggie Mac and Cheese: Replace some beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Keeps it lighter while adding color and flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Mac: Swap beef for shredded chicken and mix in buffalo sauce. Top with blue cheese crumbles for a tangy finish.
• Four-Cheese Version: Use mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère. Creates a more complex, gooey texture and richer flavor.
• Cauliflower Mac Substitute: Mix half the pasta with steamed cauliflower florets. Adds nutrients and reduces carbs while staying cheesy.
• BBQ Ground Beef Mac: Mix BBQ sauce into the cooked beef before combining with pasta. Offers a sweet and smoky Southern twist.
• Gluten-Free Mac: Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Perfect for dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

How to Store, How to Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid storing while hot to keep pasta from becoming soggy.

To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to keep the cheese creamy. For oven reheating, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, covered with foil to avoid drying. You can also add a splash of milk if the sauce seems too thick after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Mac and Cheese

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, Ground Beef Mac and Cheese can be prepared in advance. You can cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake or reheat on the stove for a fresh, creamy texture. This also allows flavors to meld beautifully if made a few hours ahead.

Can I freeze Ground Beef Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing, and thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheating in the oven gently restores the creamy texture while keeping the pasta from drying out.

Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, different pasta shapes work beautifully. Shells, rotini, or penne are great alternatives and can hold the cheese sauce well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to avoid overcooked pasta. Rotini and shells are especially fun for kids because the sauce fills the nooks and crannies.

What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar and Parmesan are classic and give great flavor. You can also mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or Gruyère for a nutty, creamy twist. Always grate the cheese yourself for the best melting texture and smooth sauce.

Ground Beef Mac and Cheese Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Learn how to make creamy, cheesy Ground Beef Mac and Cheese with simple steps, tips, and variations. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, and comfort food lovers.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using breadcrumbs)

Directions

• Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking.
• Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for another 2–3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
• Make the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a smooth roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
• Add cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Combine pasta and beef: Add the cooked macaroni and browned beef mixture to the cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness and the beef is evenly distributed.
• Optional breadcrumb topping: If you want a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and toast breadcrumbs until golden brown. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese, then bake for 10–12 minutes until the top is lightly crispy.
• Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese into a serving dish. Serve hot for a comforting, hearty meal. The cheese sauce will be creamy, the beef flavorful, and the optional breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch.