Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup finely diced onion or 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups milk
- 1 ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ¾ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, granulated sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside. This mixture will help thicken the sauce and add flavor.
- Brown the Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and finely diced onion (or onion powder if preferred). Break the beef apart with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the milk and chicken broth to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Then, add the prepared cornstarch and spice mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 9-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking and ensure even cooking. If the liquid reduces too much before the pasta is tender, add additional broth or water as needed.
- Melt the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat once the pasta is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy cheese sauce coating the pasta and beef.
- Serve Hot: Serve the casserole immediately for the best creamy texture and warm cheesy flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix.
- For a vegetarian version, replace beef with a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom of the skillet.
- If the cheese sauce thickens too much upon standing, stir in a splash of milk before reheating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
