Save It A playful fusion of classic cheeseburgers and creamy macaroni and cheese, baked in convenient, handheld muffin cups for an irresistible appetizer or fun main dish.
I first made these for a game night with friends: everyone loved the combo of gooey mac and cheese layered over juicy cheeseburger filling, especially since they could just grab-and-go each tasty little cup.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 1 cup (90 g)
- Whole milk: 1 1/4 cups (300 ml)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (100 g) plus 1/2 cup (50 g) for topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (25 g)
- Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 1 tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1/2 tsp
- Ground beef: 1/2 lb (225 g)
- Finely chopped onion: 1/4 cup (40 g)
- Ketchup: 1 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Mini burger buns or slider buns (or sandwich bread, trimmed and flattened): 12
- Nonstick cooking spray: For greasing muffin tin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Prep Muffin Tin:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk. Cook until slightly thickened, 2–3 minutes.
- Combine With Cheese:
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add macaroni and mix well. Set aside.
- Prepare Beef Filling:
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned. Drain fat.
- Season Beef:
- Add ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
- Assemble Cups:
- Press each bun (or bread slice) into muffin tins to form a base.
- Add Fillings:
- Spoon about 1 tbsp cheeseburger mixture into each cup. Top with mac and cheese.
- Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar over each. Bake 15–18 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Cool slightly before removing from tin. Serve warm.
Save It My kids always request these cups for their birthday parties: they love the mix of creamy cheese and savory burger in every bite, and helping press the bread into the muffin tins themselves!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of ketchup or spicy mayo, plus a crunchy salad for balance.
Variations
Add chopped jalapeños or pickles to the beef mixture for a tangy kick, or swap ground turkey for beef.
Storage Tips
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days, or freeze for a month. Reheat in a toaster oven for best texture.
Save It With their crispy edges and creamy centers, these cups will steal the show at your next gathering.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of bread works best for the cups?
Slider or mini burger buns work beautifully, but flattened sandwich bread also forms sturdy, crispy cups for holding the fillings.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Try ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option without losing savory flavor.
- → How do I keep the cups from sticking to the pan?
Use nonstick cooking spray in each muffin tin cup before assembling, ensuring easy removal and golden results.
- → Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the cups and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving to enjoy fresh and melty textures.
- → What toppings can be added for variety?
Chopped pickles, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of herbs bring extra flavor. Customize with ingredients your guests enjoy.