Description
Cheesy Beef Macaroni
Ingredients:
2 cups whole-wheat macaroni
1 lb lean ground beef
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1 tsp Italian herbs
Instructions:
Cook macaroni and set aside.
Brown ground beef and season with Italian herbs.
Make a roux with butter and flour, then add milk and cheese to create a sauce.
Combine macaroni, beef, and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
#HerbCheesyMac
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Begin by cooking the whole-wheat macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until thoroughly browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the 1 tsp of Italian herbs. Set the beef aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the 1 tbsp of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a golden roux, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly pour in the 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens slightly.
5. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
6. In a large mixing bowl or the empty pasta pot, combine the cooked macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish immediately while hot and creamy. For a fresh contrast, garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley as suggested. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing helps cut through the richness. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, potlucks, or as a comforting meal prep option that reheats well.
How-to Summary
Cook macaroni and brown beef with herbs. Create a simple cheese sauce by making a roux (butter + flour), whisking in milk, and melting in cheddar cheese. Combine all components—pasta, beef, and sauce—in one pot. Garnish and serve hot for a complete, satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Any short pasta like shells, cavatappi, or rotini will work well and hold the sauce.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free macaroni and substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative are excellent substitutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
My cheese sauce seems grainy. What happened?
Graininess often occurs if the heat is too high when melting the cheese. Always add cheese to the sauce base off the direct heat and stir until just melted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta, which can make it mushy when combined with the sauce. Aim for al dente.
- Adding cheese to a sauce that is too hot, which can cause it to separate and become oily.
- Not draining excess fat from the browned beef, which can make the final dish greasy.
- Forgetting to stir constantly while making the roux, leading to lumps in your sauce.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Macaroni is the epitome of comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this hearty dish. It’s versatile, forgiving, and guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the delicious, cheesy results of your cooking!
