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Creamy Hamburger Helper with Cheddar Cheese Recipe

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4.4 from 39 reviews

This classic Hamburger Helper recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal that combines browned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with rich spices for a delicious homemade twist on a nostalgic favorite.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup diced onion

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic (or 2 teaspoons fresh garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Liquids

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups milk

Pasta and Cheese

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat and Onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of lean ground beef and 1 cup of diced onion, cooking for 6-8 minutes. Break the meat into small pieces to ensure even cooking and continue until the beef is fully browned and onions are softened.
  2. Add Seasonings: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic (or 2 teaspoons fresh), 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the meat and onions with the spices.
  3. Combine Liquids and Pasta: Pour in 1 cup beef broth, 4 ounces tomato sauce, and 1 1/2 cups milk. Stir to combine all liquids with the meat mixture. Add 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  4. Cook Macaroni: Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking or burning.
  5. Finish with Cheese: Remove the lid and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Serve immediately, optionally topped with extra cheese and fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color.

Notes

  • Stir frequently during simmering to prevent macaroni from sticking and burning.
  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
  • For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce with other seasonings.
  • You can substitute milk with a lactose-free alternative if needed.
  • Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro enhances freshness and presentation.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/creamy-hamburger-helper-with-cheddar-cheese-recipe/