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Cheesy Hamburger Helper

Savory Cheesy Hamburger Helper – Quick Comfort in One Pan

Indulge in Cheesy Hamburger Helper, a quick and comforting one-pan meal that's perfect for late-night cravings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 2 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Base
  • 1 pound lean ground beef substitute ground turkey if desired
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic fresh minced
For the Pasta
  • 2.5 cups elbow macaroni uncooked, substitute with shells or penne if desired
For the Sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth chicken broth is an alternative
  • 1 cup whole milk can substitute with 2%
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded for best melting
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste or use 2 tablespoons of ketchup
Seasonings and Extras
  • 1 tablespoon oil or butter for sautéing
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • optional chili flakes for added heat
  • optional mustard for extra flavor

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  2. Add one finely chopped small onion to the skillet with the browned beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
  3. Incorporate one tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste into the mixture. Stir well to evenly coat the beef and onion.
  4. Pour in 2.5 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni, along with 4 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of whole milk into the skillet. Gently stir to combine everything.
  5. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once the pasta is tender, remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has completely melted.
  7. Let the Cheesy Hamburger Helper sit off the heat for about 2-3 minutes to thicken up slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.

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