Presto Pesto Hamburger Mac Recipe – Comfort Food with a Twist
Presto Pesto Hamburger Mac – A Delicious Twist on Comfort Food
For those of us who love comfort food with a bit of a twist, Presto Pesto Hamburger Mac is the perfect dish. It combines classic hamburger flavors with creamy pesto, creating a unique and comforting pasta that’s sure to become a family favorite. This dish brings back fond memories of easy weeknight dinners that taste like they took hours to prepare. With ground beef, cheese, pesto, and pasta, it’s a hearty meal that’s simple to make and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Presto Pesto Hamburger Mac Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic way to upgrade a classic hamburger mac and cheese. The pesto adds a fresh, herby flavor, balancing the richness of the cheese and beef. It’s a quick, versatile recipe that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something indulgent yet easy to make. The best part? It’s highly customizable, allowing you to tweak the flavors to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Recipe Overview
Dish Name
Presto Pesto Hamburger Mac
Description
A creamy pasta dish with ground beef, cheese, and pesto. This twist on traditional hamburger mac is comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup chopped basil (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions
For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also replace heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream for a non-dairy version. Try using a gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the heavy cream, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the sauce and beef mixture.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped basil if desired, and serve hot.
Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Suggestions
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect as a main dish for a family meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced and complete meal. For a hint of spice, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a side of hot sauce.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 23g
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to keep the sauce creamy. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Rotini, penne, and elbow macaroni work well in this dish, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For an added kick, try stirring in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or adding a drizzle of hot sauce over the top before serving.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the creamy cheese and mild pesto flavor. If serving to children, you may want to omit any spicy additions.
Conclusion
Presto Pesto Hamburger Mac is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or any time you’re craving something comforting. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and combines the best of both pasta and hamburger dishes. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts or any personal twists in the comments below. Happy cooking!
