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Cheesy Hamburger Helper

A comforting and quick casserole combining ground beef, creamy cheese, and pasta that's perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 460
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth You can use low-sodium broth.
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to mix with other cheeses.
  • 1 cup milk Use whole milk for creaminess.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas Optional for added nutrition.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.

Method
 

Cooking the Beef
  1. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Adding Broth and Macaroni
  1. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
  2. Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (approximately 7-10 minutes).
Seasoning and Combining
  1. Add the paprika, salt, and black pepper as the pasta cooks.
  2. If using peas, toss them in at this stage.
Stirring in Dairy
  1. Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low, pour in the milk and half of the cheddar cheese, stirring until well combined and the cheese has melted into a creamy sauce.
Final Touches
  1. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
  2. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes until cheese is melted completely.
Serving
  1. Stir everything together, serve immediately. Top with extra cheese or green onions if desired.

Notes

Customize the recipe by using different types of cheese or adding additional vegetables.