Description: A comforting and easy one-pot meal that combines ground beef, macaroni pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and plenty of cheese. This homemade version of Hamburger Helper is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1-2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 ½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 8 ounces freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef. In a large skillet or pot, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, cayenne pepper, parsley, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for an additional minute until the spices are fragrant. This helps to bloom the spices and enhance their flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, milk, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Ensure the macaroni is evenly distributed in the sauce.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir frequently, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet and burning.
Step 5: Add the Cheese. Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes to allow the mozzarella to melt.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Hamburger Helper recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- One-Pot Wonder: The convenience of a one-pot meal means fewer dishes to wash, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s a nostalgic dish that brings back childhood memories and offers a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you need a meal on the table fast.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this cheesy, flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the Hamburger Helper.
- Add a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or peas to boost the nutritional value of the meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or crusty rolls for dipping into the cheesy sauce.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
Tips:
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (90/10 or higher) to reduce the amount of grease in the dish. If you use regular ground beef, be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese: Always use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or other spices as needed.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the macaroni, as it will become mushy. Cook it until it is just tender, and it will continue to cook slightly as the cheese melts.
- Customize with Vegetables: Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the skillet along with the onion for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Make it Creamier: For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream along with the cheddar cheese.
- Storage: Store leftover Cheesy Hamburger Helper in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Sodium: 700-900 mg
Conclusion
This Cheesy Hamburger Helper recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its combination of ground beef, macaroni, cheesy sauce, and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or a convenient one-pot meal, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of this homemade Hamburger Helper, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own! It’s a versatile dish that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for many.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes such as shells, rotini, or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different pasta shapes may require slightly different cooking times. Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Q2: Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. The cooking time and method will remain the same. Just ensure the ground turkey or chicken is cooked thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q3: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free macaroni pasta. There are many gluten-free pasta options available in most grocery stores. Also, ensure that all other ingredients, such as beef broth and tomato sauce, are gluten-free by checking the labels.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe? If so, what kind? A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to this recipe! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, mushrooms, or spinach are all great additions. Add them to the skillet along with the onion and cook until they are softened before adding the other ingredients. Vegetables not only add nutritional value but also enhance the flavor of the dish.
Q5: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet while cooking? A: To prevent the pasta from sticking, stir the mixture frequently, especially towards the end of the cooking time. Make sure the heat is set to low to prevent burning. If the sauce becomes too thick and the pasta is still not cooked, add a little more milk or beef broth to maintain the desired consistency and prevent sticking.
