One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet

One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet is a cozy, family-friendly dinner that combines seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, tomato sauce, and melty cheddar in one pan. Best of all, it is quick to prepare, easy to customize, and requires very little cleanup.

Why This One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet Works

This recipe works because the pasta cooks directly in the savory beef and tomato mixture. As a result, the macaroni absorbs extra flavor while the sauce becomes rich and creamy. In addition, everything comes together in one skillet, so dinner is both satisfying and practical on busy evenings.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

How to Make One-Pan Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet

Brown the beef: First, heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and onion, then cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking up the meat, until the beef is no longer pink.
Add the aromatics: Next, stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Drain excess grease if needed.
Build the sauce: Then, add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. After that, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and does not stick.
Finish with cheese: Once the macaroni is tender, remove the lid and stir in the cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce.
Serve: Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Pro Tips

Use lean ground beef to keep the skillet from becoming greasy; however, ground turkey also works well.
Shred cheddar from a block for the smoothest melt.
Stir the pasta every few minutes, especially near the end of cooking.
For extra vegetables, add diced bell pepper, mushrooms, or spinach with the onion.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of beef broth before serving.
For a bolder cheeseburger flavor, top each serving with diced pickles or sliced green onions.

Storage Instructions

Cool leftovers promptly, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store the skillet in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or heat them gently in a covered pan with a splash of broth. The macaroni may absorb some sauce as it sits, so add liquid as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes. Small shells, rotini, or another short pasta can replace elbow macaroni. Nevertheless, cooking time may vary, so check the pasta for tenderness before adding the cheese.

Can I make this skillet ahead of time?

You can prepare it earlier in the day and refrigerate it after cooling. However, the pasta is best shortly after cooking because it continues to absorb the sauce.

Can I freeze cheeseburger macaroni?

Yes, although the texture of the pasta may soften after thawing. Freeze cooled portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or diced jalapeño with the onion. Alternatively, serve it with hot sauce at the table.

If you love easy cheesy skillet dinners, try my One-Pot Cheesy Taco Beef & Rice Skillet for another hearty weeknight meal.