why make this recipe
Cheesy Hamburger Helper is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a one-pan dish, which means less mess and less time spent cleaning up afterward. With its creamy cheese sauce and hearty pasta, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, you can make it in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals alike.
how to make Cheesy Hamburger Helper
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or similar)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the pasta, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
- Stir in the milk and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
how to serve Cheesy Hamburger Helper
Cheesy Hamburger Helper is best served hot right from the skillet. You can dish it out into bowls or plates and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color. It pairs well with a side salad or some warm bread for a complete meal.
how to store Cheesy Hamburger Helper
To store leftovers, let the Cheesy Hamburger Helper cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months, but the pasta may become a bit softer when reheated.
tips to make Cheesy Hamburger Helper
- For extra flavor, you can sauté some diced onions and bell peppers with the ground beef before adding the other ingredients.
- If you like a little spice, consider adding some hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Try using a different type of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, to vary the flavor.
variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or a meat substitute. Also, you can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you choose a different type.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I use instead of beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative for a lighter version.
Cheesy Hamburger Helper
A comforting one-pan meal featuring creamy cheese sauce and hearty pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or similar)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the pasta, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
- Stir in the milk and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, sauté diced onions and bell peppers with the ground beef. For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with TVP and use vegetable broth.
