One Pot Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper
A comforting meal that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a simple pasta dish, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Beef
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 1/2 tsp seasoned salt or table salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk (not skim)
- 2 cups dry cavatappi pasta or macaroni noodles
- 2 cups grated yellow sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the ground beef, breaking it up, until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, sugar, and pepper. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
- Incorporate the beef broth, then stir in the milk until combined.
- Add the dry pasta and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Cook until the pasta is done, about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish by stirring in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Notes
Using freshly grated cheese enhances the creaminess of the dish, and lean ground beef keeps it healthier. You can substitute with other proteins or add vegetables as desired.