In a cooking rut? Try one of these taste-tested, family-approved recipes using ground beef.
Easy Cheesy Beef Mac
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A quick way to turn a box of macaroni and cheese into dinner
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
6 reviews
1 comment
ingredients
1 box (7.25 ounce size) macaroni and cheese mix
1 pound ground beef
1 can (10.75 ounce size) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
directions
Prepare the macaroni (just the pasta) as directed on the package and cook until al dente. Drain well.
Meanwhile, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Stir the cooked macaroni into the beef along with the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cheese sauce packet. Cook, stirring for 1 minute or until the cheese powder is mixed in.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Serve hot.
recipe tips
Saute some onions and garlic with the ground beef.
Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef.
Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a few minutes for a crispy topping.
Spice it up with a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to adjust the consistency.
Remember to stir the mixture occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
common recipe questions
Can I use shells and cheese pasta mix?
Yes, any small pasta shape like shells will work.
Is there a substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Or use a plant-based substitute if desired.
Can I use a different type of condensed soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be used as substitutes.
Is it necessary to use milk?
Milk helps to create a creamier texture, but you can use water or broth.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, try vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can reheat leftovers on the stove or in the microwave.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add extra cheese to the dish?
Yes, adding shredded cheddar or mozzarella will make it extra-cheesy.
Can this recipe be frozen?
It's best served freshly made, as the texture may change after freezing and reheating.
nutrition data
614 calories, 32 grams fat, 44 grams carbohydrates, 29 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
September 13, 2020
Great, but I also added an onion! Family loved it. Wants me to make again. Love that it is fast and easy.
January 4, 2017
decent emergency dinner recipe when you have little kids and a super busy schedule. Husband didn't much care for it but it reminded me of something that I loved that my mom made when I was a kid but it didn't have the soup in it.
November 3, 2016
This was a yummmmmy recipe. I did add garlic, pepper, oregano and thyme.
September 5, 2015
This was amazing, easy to make and a real hit with the kids. Thanks!
August 29, 2010
My father-in-law really liked this recipe. I used low sodium mushroom soup and next time I will use the regular soup. Good Recipe.
I've been making this for 35 years. But I always add 1 tsp. of garlic powder, 1/4 tsp pepper and 1/2 tsp Oregano & Thyme to browned beef & mushroom soup, before mixing with Mac & Cheese. It gives it a savory flavor.
July 2, 2007
I have a family of 5.... quick and easy meals are my favorite! This recipe was a lifesaver and will continue to use it! Thank you!! It was very very good and very very easy to make. Everyone loved it!!!!