16 Macaroni Cheese Beef Meals That Will Warm Your Heart (You Won’t Want to Miss #8!)
May 21, 2025 | by Roz L
Nothing brings comfort like a warm bowl of macaroni cheese with a hearty portion of beef.
These meals combine the gooey goodness of melted cheese, the satisfying bite of pasta, and the rich flavors of beef, creating soul-soothing dishes that are perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
From classic recipes that remind you of home to innovative spins that add a twist to your favorites, this list has it all. Get ready to indulge in 16 mouth-watering macaroni cheese beef meals that will surely warm your heart and leave you craving more!
1. Classic Beef Mac and Cheese Casserole
This classic beef mac and cheese casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a trip down memory lane!
Layered with tender ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and al dente macaroni, this dish bakes to perfection, forming a golden crust on the top while keeping the insides ooey-gooey. To make it even heartier, add some sautéed onions and green bell peppers for a pop of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and bell peppers. Drain excess fat.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer to a greased casserole dish, top with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and makes great leftovers, too.
2. Spicy Chipotle Beef Mac and Cheese
Looking to spice things up? This spicy chipotle beef mac and cheese brings heat to your plate!
Mix ground beef with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick that complements the creaminess of the cheese. The blend of pepper jack and sharp cheddar creates a flavor explosion that will please spice lovers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 cup pepper jack cheese
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Stir in chopped chipotle peppers and sour cream.
3. In another pot, melt pepper jack and cheddar cheese with a splash of milk.
4. Combine the beef mixture with macaroni and cheese, mixing well.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This dish not only warms your heart but also ignites your taste buds!
3. Cheesy Beef Mac and Broccoli Bake
If you’re looking for a way to sneak in some greens, this cheesy beef mac and broccoli bake is perfection.
Adding tender broccoli florets not only enhances the nutrition but also gives the dish a delightful crunch. The rich, cheesy sauce envelops the macaroni and beef while the broccoli adds a wonderful texture contrast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 3 cups shredded cheese (mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
– 1 can cream of cheddar soup
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni and broccoli until just tender; drain and add to a bowl.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef, then mix in the cream of cheddar soup and milk.
4. Combine the beef mixture with pasta and broccoli, then stir in 2 cups of cheese.
5. Transfer to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden.
This bake is a delightful way to enjoy a complete meal in one dish, pleasing both kids and adults!
4. Beef Stroganoff Mac and Cheese
Merge two favorites into one with this beef stroganoff mac and cheese. It’s hearty and creamy, and the flavors meld together beautifully!
Tender pieces of beef in a savory mushroom sauce create a decadent topping for your cheesy pasta. The combination of sour cream and Dijon mustard gives it that classic stroganoff tang that pairs excellently with the cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb beef strips
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 cups cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni; set aside.
2. In a skillet, sear the beef strips until browned, then add mushrooms and cook until softened.
3. Stir in sour cream and Dijon, mixing well.
4. Combine with the macaroni and cheddar cheese, mixing until everything is coated.
5. Serve warm with a sprinkle of parsley for an elegant touch.
This dish is perfect for impressing guests or a cozy family dinner!
5. BBQ Beef Mac and Cheese
Take your taste buds on a barbecue adventure with this BBQ beef mac and cheese!
The smoky flavor of the BBQ sauce mixed with the cheesy pasta and beef creates a sweet and savory symphony. Top this hearty dish with crunchy onion rings for an extra layer of goodness!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups shredded cheese
– 1/2 cup fried onion rings (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions; set aside.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet and stir in the BBQ sauce.
3. Combine the macaroni with the beef and cheese in a large bowl.
4. Pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
5. Serve with fried onion rings on top.
This meal is a great way to transition summer flavors into cozy autumn comfort food!
6. Mexican Beef Mac and Cheese
Spice it up with this Mexican beef mac and cheese!
This dish combines the heartiness of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of taco seasoning, black beans, and corn, creating a fiesta in every bite. Topped with avocado and cilantro, it’s a colorful and nutritious take on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup black beans
– 1 cup corn
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend)
– Avocado and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni until al dente; drain.
2. Brown the ground beef and add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn, cooking until heated through.
3. Mix in the macaroni and cheese, combining everything well.
4. Top with avocado slices and fresh cilantro before serving.
This meal is not only filling but also perfect for a fun night in with friends!
7. Italian Beef Mac and Cheese
Experience a taste of Italy with this Italian beef mac and cheese!
Infused with Italian herbs and spices, it’s like a cheesy lasagna in a bowl. Ground beef is seasoned with garlic and basil, and combined with a rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella for that classic Italian flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni until al dente; drain.
2. Brown the ground beef, mixing in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
3. Combine with the macaroni and half of the mozzarella cheese.
4. Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbling.
This dish is sure to transport you straight to Italy with every creamy, cheesy bite!
8. Cheesy Beef and Spinach One-Pot Wonder
For a quick and easy meal, this cheesy beef and spinach one-pot wonder is a lifesaver!
All ingredients come together in one pot, making it a breeze for cleanup. The addition of fresh spinach not only adds color but also packs in vital nutrients. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-filling, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 1/2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef.
2. Add the beef broth and macaroni; bring to a boil and cook until the macaroni is tender.
3. Stir in spinach and cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Serve immediately for a comforting meal.
This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in those greens!
9. Creamy Beef Mac and Cheese with Butternut Squash
This creamy beef mac and cheese with butternut squash is a unique twist that’s both nutritious and delicious!
The naturally sweet flavor of roasted butternut squash blends perfectly with the cheesy sauce, making it an appealing dish for those who love comfort food with a healthy edge. This recipe is a great way to incorporate veggies into meals without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups roasted butternut squash puree
– 2 cups shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
3. Mix in the butternut squash puree and cheese until melted.
4. Combine with macaroni, stirring until well mixed.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
This dish is a delicious way to celebrate autumn flavors!
10. Mac and Cheese Stuffed Peppers with Beef
Change things up with these mac and cheese stuffed peppers!
Bell peppers are filled with a cheesy beef mac mixture and then baked until everything melds together. This dish is not only delicious but also adds a colorful touch to your table. Customize your peppers with different cheese or even add some spice for an extra kick.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups shredded cheese
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni and brown the ground beef; mix together with cheese and diced tomatoes.
3. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds.
4. Stuff each pepper with the macaroni and cheese mixture.
5. Place in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.
These stuffed peppers not only look amazing but are also a fun way to enjoy your favorite flavors!
11. Beef Mac and Cheese Tacos
Tacos meet mac and cheese in these fun beef mac and cheese tacos!
Soft tortillas are filled with a cheesy beef macaroni mixture, creating a delightful fusion that’s perfect for a casual dinner or a fun get-together. Top with your favorite taco fixings like salsa, avocado, or shredded lettuce for a tasty treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheese
– 8 soft tortillas
– Taco toppings (salsa, avocado, lettuce)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni; drain.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet; mix in cheese until melted.
3. Combine macaroni with the beef and cheese mixture.
4. Fill each tortilla with the mixture and top with taco toppings.
These tacos are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a flavorful twist on classic favorites!
12. Beef and Cheese Macaroni Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of beef and cheese macaroni soup!
This dish is perfect for cold nights when you want something hearty yet simple. Ground beef and macaroni come together in a creamy broth, while a generous amount of cheese makes it extra comforting.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a pot, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
2. Add beef broth and bring to a boil.
3. Stir in macaroni and diced tomatoes; cook until pasta is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted.
Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal that’s sure to fill you up!
13. Beefy Mac and Cheese Frittata
Looking for a breakfast twist? Try this beefy mac and cheese frittata!
Packed with leftover macaroni and cheese, combined with eggs and cooked beef, this dish is a delightful way to start your day. Serve it with fresh herbs for a flavorful kick. It’s a unique way to use up any leftover mac and cheese and makes for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover mac and cheese
– 4 eggs
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix in the leftover macaroni and cheese with the cooked beef.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased skillet and bake for 25-30 minutes until set.
This frittata is not only filling but also a fun way to switch up typical breakfast fare!
14. Gourmet Beef Mac and Cheese with Truffle Oil
For a special occasion, elevate your dish with gourmet beef mac and cheese drizzled with truffle oil.
This luxurious twist adds a rich and earthy flavor that takes comfort food to a whole new level. Use high-quality cheese for a creamier, more sophisticated taste, and finish with a sprinkle of parmesan for an elegant touch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cheese blend (fontina, gouda)
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni; drain.
2. Brown the ground beef and mix in the cheese blend until melted.
3. Combine the macaroni with the beef and cheese, then drizzle with truffle oil.
4. Top with parmesan and serve warm.
This dish is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties!
15. Beef and Cheese Baked Ziti Mac and Cheese
Combine the best of both worlds with this beef and cheese baked ziti mac and cheese!
It’s the ultimate comfort dish, mixing baked ziti with creamy mac and cheese for a truly indulgent meal. Layered with creamy cheese and a savory meat sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ziti pasta
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded cheese
– Italian seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ziti according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and mix in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
4. Combine cooked ziti with macaroni and cheese, then layer with beef sauce in a baking dish.
5. Top with cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
This dish is cheesy, filling, and perfect for family gatherings!
16. Macaroni Cheese Beef Skillet
Finish off with a quick and easy macaroni cheese beef skillet that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!
Using just one pan, this dish is made with ground beef, macaroni, and lots of melty cheese, making it a straightforward yet satisfying meal. Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups cheese (any blend of your choice)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef; drain.
2. Add beef broth and bring to a boil.
3. Stir in macaroni and diced tomatoes, cooking until pasta is tender.
4. Mix in cheese until melted and creamy.
This skillet meal is not only quick but also packed with flavor, making it a reliable go-to for busy nights!
Conclusion
These 16 macaroni cheese beef meals are your ticket to heartwarming comfort!
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or looking to try a fun twist, each recipe brings a unique flavor that’s sure to satisfy. From hearty casseroles to quick weeknight meals, there’s something for everyone.
So grab your favorite ingredients and get ready to whip up a cozy feast that will warm your heart and soul!
