Mac and Cheese Cowboy Cups With Ground Beef: A Hearty, Cheesy Delight

If you're looking for the perfect bite-sized comfort food with a Western twist, Mac and Cheese Cowboy Cups with Ground Beef are just what you need!

These delicious, cheesy, and meaty cups combine the best of classic mac and cheese with the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef, all served in a convenient, hand-held cup. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a fun family dinner, this recipe is a surefire hit for both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portable and fun – Easy to serve at gatherings or for on-the-go meals.
Comfort food with a twist – Classic mac and cheese meets hearty ground beef.
Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like bacon, jalapeños, or barbecue sauce.
Kid-approved – A fun way to serve a cheesy, beefy dish that kids love!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Ground Beef:

1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

For Assembly:

12 wonton wrappers or small biscuit dough rounds
1/4 cup shredded cheddar (for topping)
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Mac and Cheese

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it turns golden brown.
Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked macaroni. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Drain any excess grease and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Stir in the barbecue sauce if using. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Cups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a muffin tin and place a wonton wrapper or biscuit dough round in each cup, pressing gently to create a cup shape.
Add a spoonful of mac and cheese to each cup, followed by a spoonful of seasoned ground beef.
Top each cup with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before carefully lifting them out of the muffin tin.
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Cowboy Cups

Use high-quality cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor.
Spice it up – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
Make it crispy – For a crispier base, lightly pre-bake the wonton wrappers for 3-4 minutes before filling.
Try different meats – Swap ground beef for pulled pork, ground turkey, or even shredded chicken for variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese and ground beef in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, assemble the cups and heat them in the oven.

2. Can I Freeze Mac and Cheese Cowboy Cups?

Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

3. What Can I Serve With These Cups?

These cups pair well with coleslaw, a fresh salad, or baked beans for a complete meal.

4. Can I Use Store-Bought Mac and Cheese?

Yes! If you're short on time, use pre-made mac and cheese to speed up the process. Just be sure it's thick enough to hold its shape in the cups.

5. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Mac and Cheese Cowboy Cups with Ground Beef are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty meatiness, all packed into a convenient and delicious bite. Whether you're making them for a party, a family dinner, or just to satisfy a mac and cheese craving, these cups are sure to be a hit. Try them out and let us know how you customize yours!