Rachael Ray: Rachael's Daytime Talkshow

Chili Mac Cheeseburgers

Aired on: August 11, 2011, April 4, 2011

This isn't your ordinary cheeseburger, but is sure to be a hit with the whole family!

Ingredients

EVOO – Extra Virgin Olive Oil or vegetable oil, for drizzling
2 1/2 pounds ground turkey or beef sirloin, divided
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 rounded tablespoon, a healthy palmful, mild (ancho) or hot (chipotle) chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander, 1/3 palmful
1 teaspoon cumin, 1/3 palmful
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup beer or beef stock
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 1/4 cups milk
1 cup shredded sharp yellow cheddar cheese
1/3 pound elbow macaroni
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
4 large burger rolls or 12 slider-size rolls

Yields: Serves 4 as entrée or makes 12 slider size patties.

Preparation

In a small skillet, heat a drizzle of oil, about 1/2 tablespoon, over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 pound turkey or beef and brown and crumble. Add onions, garlic, chili powder, coriander, cumin, salt and pepper, and cook to soften onions, 5 minutes. Add tomato paste, stir a minute then deglaze pan with beer or stock.

In a second small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, add milk and season sauce with salt and pepper. Let thicken then melt cheese into sauce.

Bring a medium saucepot of water to a boil. Salt water and cook pasta to al dente. Drain pasta and toss with cheese sauce then fold in chili.

While pasta water comes to a boil, heat a grill or griddle pan over medium high heat.

In a mixing bowl, season remaining 2 pounds of meat with Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper, and form 4 large burgers or 12 slider-size burgers. Cook burgers to desired doneness. Place patties on the buns and top with some chili mac. Serve with vegetable sticks alongside.