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Homemade Hamburger Helper

A quick, comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Can swap for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Or olive oil for a dairy-free twist.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped Red onion gives a sweeter note.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Roasting gives a mellower flavor.
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.
  • 2 cups beef broth Or chicken broth or vegetable broth for a more neutral flavor.
  • 1 cup milk Dairy-free milk works too.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated For indulgent feelings.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas or chopped spinach Swap spinach with kale for a stronger flavor.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until no pink remains, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Push the beef to one side of the pan, add the butter and let it bubble and release a nutty aroma. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, and oregano. Stir until the spices toast slightly and coat the meat.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Stir in the uncooked macaroni and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove the lid and stir in the grated cheddar and frozen peas or spinach if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Let the dish sit off the heat for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently; you can freeze portions for up to 3 months.