One Pan Cheeseburger Mac

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion (diced; can be removed after cooking for picky eaters)
• cheeseburger seasonings (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste)
• 0.25 cup ketchup (estimated quantity)
• 1 tbsp mustard (estimated quantity)
• 1 tbsp pickle juice (estimated quantity)
• 0.5 lb elbow macaroni (uncooked pasta)
• 8 oz tomato sauce (1 small can)
• 2 cup beef broth (enough to cover pasta)
• 2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 0.25 cup milk (a splash to reach desired consistency)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and seasonings until the beef is browned and the onions are softened.

2. 2

   If your children do not like onions, you can remove the onion pieces from the pan at this stage after they have flavored the meat.

3. 3

   Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and pickle juice until well combined with the meat.

4. 4

   Add the dry pasta, the can of tomato sauce, and the beef broth to the pan.

5. 5

   Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pan and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

6. 6

   Stir in the shredded cheese and a splash of milk, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Notes

The author suggests removing the onions after cooking if your kids are picky. You can adjust the amount of beef broth depending on how much liquid your specific pasta brand absorbs.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• dinner
• one-pan
• cheeseburger
• pasta
• kid-friendly
• easy