How to Make Hamburger Mac

Hamburger mac, also known as American chop suey or goulash, is a classic comfort food dish that combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, tomatoes, and spices. This hearty and flavorful dish is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make hamburger mac from scratch, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients for Hamburger Mac

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Hamburger Mac

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

1. While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Combine the Beef Mixture and Macaroni

1. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef mixture and stir to combine.
2. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the macaroni is heated through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
2. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

About the Main Ingredients

Ground Beef

Ground beef is the star of this dish, providing protein and flavor. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.

Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce add richness and depth to the sauce. Use canned tomatoes for convenience, or use fresh tomatoes when they’re in season for a fresher flavor.

Macaroni

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for this dish, but you can use any short pasta shape you like. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used for a healthier alternative.

Cheese

Shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy and cheesy finish to the dish. Feel free to use any type of cheese you like, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan.

Spices

Dried oregano, basil, and paprika add flavor and depth to the dish. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste.

This homemade hamburger mac is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a simple and delicious dinner idea, this recipe is sure to please!