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Cheesy Hamburger Helper

Cheesy Hamburger Helper That’s Quick, Creamy, and Comforting

A quick, creamy, and comforting dish combining ground beef and elbow macaroni, perfect for busy weeknights. Cheesy Hamburger Helper is a family favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 pound lean ground beef use for healthier option
  • 1 cup milk can substitute with non-dairy milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese can blend with mozzarella for stretchiness
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni can substitute with shell or penne pasta
  • 4 cups beef broth can use chicken or vegetable broth
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder can substitute with fresh minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder can substitute with fresh onions
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika can provide a unique twist
  • 1 pinch black pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 pinch salt adjust to taste
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil can substitute with vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 cup optional mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, or corn

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  2. Drain excess fat and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add elbow macaroni to the skillet, stir well to coat with seasoning.
  4. Pour in beef broth, bring to a boil. Cook until pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  5. Stir in milk and cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
  6. Remove from heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, stir until melted.
  7. If desired, stir in optional mixed vegetables and warm for 2 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Adjust seasonings after storage if needed.

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