Best One Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni (Creamy 30 Minute Skillet Dinner)

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Introduction

This one pan cheeseburger macaroni brings classic comfort food energy to the dinner table — creamy, cheesy, savory, and satisfying like homemade Hamburger Helper but elevated and cooked completely from scratch. Ground beef and elbow macaroni simmer right in the same skillet with cheddar and seasonings, creating a velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta. This one pan cheeseburger macaroni is the perfect weeknight dinner because it’s fast, crowd-pleasing, affordable, and incredibly comforting in 30 minutes.This one pan cheeseburger macaroni recipe is exactly the kind of easy comfort skillet meal that becomes a weekly rotation favorite.

Why This One Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe Works

Everything happens in one skillet — the beef browns, the pasta cooks, and the sauce forms naturally as liquid reduces. This builds deep flavor without extra dishes. Using freshly shredded cheddar cheese creates a creamier, smoother sauce compared to bagged pre-shredded cheese. This one pan cheeseburger macaroni tastes nostalgic yet more flavorful than boxed versions — a perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and rich creamy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions or parsley, optional for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with onion, salt, and pepper until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Stir in garlic, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce and cook 30 seconds.
3. Add beef broth, milk or cream, and elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a light simmer, cover, and cook 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with green onions or parsley and serve hot.

Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef
• Half and half can replace cream for lighter sauce
• Monterey Jack can be used instead of cheddar

Variations

• Add diced pickles for a cheeseburger flavor twist
• Add a spoon of ketchup + mustard for authentic cheeseburger taste
• Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for spicy version

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups

Serving Ideas

Serve this one pan cheeseburger macaroni with side salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or buttered green beans. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights — satisfying comfort food that feels homemade but requires minimal cleanup.This one pan cheeseburger macaroni is also a great dinner for batching or feeding a family because it stretches ingredients and uses pantry staples. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta which makes the flavor feel rich without needing expensive ingredients. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want something filling, cozy, and satisfying.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to revive the sauce creaminess.

Internal Links

If you love creamy skillet dinners, try my One-Pan Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another comfort classic option.
And if you prefer a bright, citrus twist — check out my One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Broccoli for an easy weeknight meal alternative.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes — this one pan cheeseburger macaroni reheats very well.

Can I freeze it?
Not ideal — dairy sauces can separate after freezing.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and gives the best creamy texture.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting grainy?
Lower heat before adding cheese — high heat breaks dairy and makes it grainy.

For safe ground beef handling and temperature guidelines, you can check the USDA recommendations: