Description
This homemade hamburger helper is a one-pan comfort food classic made with ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. A quick and customizable dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked macaroni, beef broth, milk, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- Season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- To make it spicier, add chili powder or crushed red pepper.
- Add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms.
- Use a mix of cheeses for varied flavor and texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute with plant-based milk and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
