Slow Cooker Hamburger Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—combining the rich, hearty flavors of ground beef with the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base for the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 12 oz macaroni pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold the cheesy sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that classic, rich, and sharp cheese flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds creaminess and a gooey texture.
- 4 cups milk: Creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Enhances the richness and creaminess of the dish.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the entire dish.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a savory garlic flavor.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth to complement the beef and cheese.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ground Beef and Onion:
- Brown the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. As it cooks, break it up into small crumbles with a spatula.
- Add the Onion:
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
- Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- Place the cooked ground beef and onions into the slow cooker.
- Add Pasta and Cheeses:
- Add the uncooked macaroni pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker.
- Pour in Milk and Cream:
- Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring everything together to combine.
3. Season the Dish:
- Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika over the mixture. Stir to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the seasonings.
4. Cook the Mac & Cheese:
- Set the Slow Cooker:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid.
- Check for Doneness:
- After about 2 hours, check the pasta for doneness. The pasta should be tender, and the sauce should be creamy and thickened.
5. Adjust Consistency and Serve:
- Check the Sauce:
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk or cream to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer with the lid off.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, give everything a good stir. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Mac & Cheese
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Shred your own cheese for the best melt and flavor, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it doesn’t become mushy. Stirring occasionally helps to cook it evenly.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Slow Cooker Hamburger Mac & Cheese is a family-friendly dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s an ideal meal for any night of the week. The combination of tender pasta, rich beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce makes this dish a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. Serve it as is, or pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!
