Slow Cooker Hamburger Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that combines tender ground beef, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce—all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. This easy-to-make comfort food is ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something warm and satisfying. It’s a dish the whole family will love, made with minimal effort and lots of flavor.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Drain any excess fat and transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Pasta and Liquids
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, beef broth, cheddar cheese soup, Worcestershire sauce, and whole milk to the slow cooker with the ground beef mixture.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the pasta is tender. Stir once or twice during cooking to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Once the pasta is tender, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker.
- Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the dish, creating a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the hamburger mac & cheese warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Pasta: Check the pasta during cooking to ensure it doesn’t overcook. If it absorbs too much liquid, you can add an extra splash of milk or broth.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend for this recipe, such as Colby jack or pepper jack, to switch up the flavors.
- Ground Meat: You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
Variations
Spicy Hamburger Mac & Cheese
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an added level of heat.
Bacon Cheeseburger Mac & Cheese
- Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist that resembles a classic bacon cheeseburger.
Veggie-Packed Mac & Cheese
- Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers or frozen peas to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for extra veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. When you’re ready, add the pasta, liquids, and cheese, and cook as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works best, you can use any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may cook at different rates.
What Should I Serve with Hamburger Mac & Cheese?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also great served with pickles on the side for a fun burger-inspired twist.
Slow Cooker Hamburger Mac & Cheese is a delicious, comforting meal that combines the classic flavors of ground beef, pasta, and cheese in an easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness that the whole family will love. Customize it to your liking with added spices or veggies, and enjoy this hearty comfort food without any hassle.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite of this comforting mac & cheese!