Description
This Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper is a creamy, cheesy one-pot meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and flavorful seasonings to create a comforting family favorite. Quick to prepare and customizable, it offers a delicious alternative to takeout with the rich taste of cheeseburgers in every bite.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef, extra lean
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 12 ounces macaroni or shell pasta, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium) or beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 12 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté the onions: Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent and softened.
- Add ground beef: Stir in the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and no longer pink.
- Mix seasonings: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the beef mixture, then add dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir well to coat evenly.
- Add pasta and liquids: Pour in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything together to combine.
- Cook the mixture: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most liquid has been absorbed.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Add cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Top with remaining cheese, then cover and cook over low heat for 1 minute until all the cheese is melted and creamy.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Leftovers should be cooled before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat leftovers slowly on the stove or microwave until heated through.
- To freeze, transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3-4 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
- You can customize the cheese for different flavors, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
