Description
A creative twist on classic macaroni and cheese inspired by the iconic Big Mac burger. This recipe combines creamy cheesy pasta with seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced pickles, tomatoes, and Thousand Island dressing, delivering all the flavors of a Big Mac in a comforting, casserole-style dish. Perfect for a nostalgic yet hearty meal that serves 8.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 1 pound elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 cups whole milk
- 10 slices American cheese, unwrapped (2 slices diced small and set aside)
- 1 cup sharp shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Thousand Island dressing
Beef Mixture and Toppings
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ onion, diced
- 1 tomato, diced and deseeded
- 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- ⅓ cup diced pickles
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni pasta according to the package instructions, but stop cooking 3 to 4 minutes before the pasta is fully done to ensure it remains firm during the next steps. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large, tall-sided skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions become translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the beef mixture to a plate and let it cool slightly.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Using the same skillet, add the drained pasta back in along with the whole milk, 8 slices of American cheese broken into pieces, shredded Cheddar cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Melt and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the cheeses to melt completely and the sauce to thicken while the flavors meld together. This should take about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the creamy macaroni mixture to a large serving platter. Top with the shredded iceberg lettuce, browned ground beef, diced pickles, diced tomato, and the reserved diced American cheese slices. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle additional Thousand Island dressing over the top if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your Big Mac inspired macaroni and cheese!
Notes
- Stop cooking the pasta early to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- The Thousand Island dressing adds the signature Big Mac flavor and creaminess; choose a good quality brand or homemade if preferred.
- For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- If you like your mac and cheese extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheddar or American cheese slices.
- This dish is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and pickles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
