Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Homemade Hamburger Macaroni and Cheese


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: wellness sleuth
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 4 - 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

    • Whole Wheat Macaroni: 2 cups (uncooked)

    • Lean Ground Beef or Turkey: 1 pound

    • Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon

    • Onion: 1 small, diced

    • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

    • Baby Spinach: 2 cups

    • Low-sodium beef or Vegetable Broth: 1 cup

    • Low-fat milk: 2 cups

    • Whole Wheat Flour: 2 tablespoons

    • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1.5 cups, shredded

    • Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated

    • Black Pepper: to taste

    • Salt: to taste

    • Paprika: 1 teaspoon

    • Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (optional)


Instructions


  1. Cook the Macaroni:

    • Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
    • Add the whole wheat macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.

  2. Prepare the Cooking Area:

    • While the macaroni is cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare the vegetables.
    • Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

  3. Cook the Ground Meat:

    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onion to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. Brown the Meat:

    • Add the lean ground beef or turkey to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
    • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through. This should take 5-7 minutes.
    • If there is excess fat in the skillet, carefully drain it away.

  5. Add the Spinach:

    • Stir in the baby spinach and cook until it is wilted, about 2 minutes.

  6. Make the Sauce:

    • Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the cooked meat and spinach mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for about 1 minute.
    • Gradually add the low-sodium broth while stirring, ensuring there are no lumps from the flour.
    • Slowly pour in the low-fat milk, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
    • Let it cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, approximately 3-5 minutes.

  7. Combine Ingredients:

    • Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked macaroni to the skillet.
    • Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

  8. Season the Dish:

    • Season the macaroni and cheese with black pepper, salt, and paprika to taste.
    • If desired, stir in the Dijon mustard for added flavor.

  9. Serve:

    • Once everything is well combined and the cheese is completely melted, remove the skillet from the heat.
    • Serve the Hamburger Macaroni and Cheese hot, and enjoy your homemade meal!

Feel free to adjust seasoning and ingredient quantities based on your taste preferences. Enjoy your delicious homemade dish!

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 - 40 minutes
1.6K views 31 Shares
Share via
Copy link
Powered by Social Snap