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The Complete Guide to Hamburger Helper: Recipes, Variations, and Tips for Busy Families


  • Author: Elsa
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A one-pot cheesy beef and macaroni skillet made with ground beef, pasta, cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings. A family-friendly comfort food dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb extra lean ground beef
  • ½ medium onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown Beef & Onion: In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown ground beef and onion for 7–10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Season: Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder.
  3. Add Broth & Pasta: Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Stir in macaroni.
  4. Cook Pasta: Reduce heat to medium and cook uncovered 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove from heat, stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Finish: Season with salt and pepper. Let sit 2–3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor. Use mozzarella or Pepper Jack for a cheesy twist.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pot Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 880mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: cheesy beef macaroni, one-pot dinner, ground beef pasta, comfort food skillet