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Is there anything more comforting than a big bowl of mac and cheese? This isn’t just any mac and cheese, though. This Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese takes the classic to a whole new level, adding savory ground beef for a satisfying and complete meal. Forget watery sauces and bland flavors; this recipe guarantees a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious experience every single time. Get ready to make the best beef mac and cheese you’ve ever tasted!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese

This recipe isn’t just delicious, it’s also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again:

  • Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor – everything you crave in comfort food.
  • One-Pot Meal: With the beef and pasta all in one dish, it’s a complete and easy meal.
  • Kid-Friendly (and Adult-Approved!): Everyone loves mac and cheese, and the addition of beef makes it even more appealing.
  • Perfect for Weeknights: Quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, but impressive enough to serve to guests.
  • Say Goodbye to Watery Sauce: Our secret trick ensures a creamy, dreamy sauce every time.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about the ingredients that make this Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese so special. We’re aiming for a rich, savory, and cheesy flavor profile, and each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that. This isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about understanding how they interact to create the perfect bite.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese! Its shape is perfect for capturing all that delicious cheese sauce. Feel free to experiment with other short pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi.
  • 1 pound ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to minimize grease. The beef adds a savory depth to the dish that transforms it from a side into a main course.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped: Onions provide a foundational layer of flavor. Sautéing them with the beef creates a sweet and aromatic base for the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This is the secret weapon against watery sauce! The flour helps to create a roux, which thickens the milk and ensures a creamy consistency.
  • 3 cups milk: Whole milk will give you the richest, creamiest sauce, but you can use 2% if you prefer.
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is our go-to for its bold flavor, but you can mix it up with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Parmesan.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the cheesiness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.

Crafting Your Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese: Step-by-Step

Now for the fun part! Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps; this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. The key is to follow the instructions carefully and pay attention to the details. Let’s get started on this creamy, dreamy journey!

  1. Cook the macaroni: Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Be sure to cook it al dente – slightly firm to the bite – as it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce. Once cooked, drain the macaroni well and set it aside.
  2. Brown the ground beef: While the macaroni is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, and drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor.
  3. Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The onions should be translucent and fragrant, releasing their sweetness into the beef.
  4. Make the roux: This is the key to a non-watery sauce! Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This allows the flour to cook and absorb the fat, creating a stable base for the sauce. Think of it like building the foundation for a house!
  5. Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps from the flour. Whisk vigorously to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth sauce. Pouring the milk in slowly and whisking constantly is crucial for a lump-free sauce.
  6. Simmer until thickened: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken. This may take a few minutes, so be patient. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  7. Add the cheese and seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens! The cheese melts into a glorious sauce, creating the perfect base for the mac and cheese.
  8. Combine with macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Make sure the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
  9. Serve and enjoy!: Serve immediately and enjoy! This Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese is best served hot, when the sauce is at its creamiest.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese Every Time

Want to make sure your Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese is a total success? Here are a few extra tips and tricks to keep in mind:

  • Don’t overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni will become mushy in the cheese sauce. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shred your own cheese for a creamier sauce.
  • Adjust the cheese to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or adjust the amount to suit your taste. A little bit of Gruyere can add a nutty complexity, while Monterey Jack can make the sauce extra melty.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
  • Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and bake it just before serving. To prevent it from drying out, add a splash of milk before baking. Consider using a baking dish similar to the one in our savory beef mac and cheese casserole.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese

While this Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese is a complete meal on its own, it’s also delicious served with a variety of side dishes. Consider these options:

  • A Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus are all great choices.
  • Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a welcome addition to any pasta dish. Speaking of garlic bread, why not try our delicious garlic bread recipe for a perfect pairing?

Your Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef. The cooking time and process will remain the same.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value of this dish. Consider adding steamed broccoli, peas, or corn to the mac and cheese.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

While you can freeze mac and cheese, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The sauce may become a bit grainy. To minimize this, allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy Your Homemade Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese!

There you have it – a foolproof recipe for Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese that’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family! This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or potlucks with friends. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out! And if you loved this, be sure to share this recipe with your friends!

Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese (Never Watery Sauce)

Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese (Never Watery Sauce) Save For Later!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
  2. While macaroni is cooking, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the beef and onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step is essential for a creamy, non-watery sauce.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps from the flour.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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