Description
A creamy and hearty cheeseburger-inspired casserole made with seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, rich cheddar cheese, and savory broth for an easy comfort food dinner.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
1 pound lean ground beef
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4 cups beef broth, divided
1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 ounces, with juices
12 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or sliced scallion, optional
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and ground beef. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, breaking the beef into small pieces, until the beef is cooked through and the onion is soft.
3. Season with garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for about 1 minute, until the tomato paste deepens in color.
5. Add 3 1/4 cups beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.
6. Stir in the elbow macaroni. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. Add extra broth a few tablespoons at a time if the mixture gets too thick before the pasta is done.
7. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese until creamy and melted.
8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese over the top. Cover for about 3 minutes, until melted. For a browned top, place the skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, if using an oven-safe pan.
9. Garnish with parsley or scallion, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Add extra broth if the pasta absorbs liquid too quickly.
For extra flavor, broil briefly for a golden cheesy top.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American