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Easy One-Skillet Hamburger Helper Recipe Perfect for Quick Dinners

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A quick and comforting homemade hamburger helper made in one skillet using simple pantry staples, perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat in a large skillet.
  2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, dried Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the tomato paste.
  5. Pour in beef broth and milk, then stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover skillet with a lid, and simmer. Stir every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, about 12-15 minutes, until pasta is tender.
  7. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and Worcestershire sauce until cheese melts and sauce is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add more milk or broth if sauce is too thick.
  9. Serve warm. Leftovers can be reheated with a splash of milk.

Notes

Drain excess fat after browning beef to avoid greasy sauce. Toast tomato paste for richer flavor. Stir frequently while simmering to prevent sticking. Use freshly shredded cheddar for best melting. Adjust liquid as needed depending on pasta brand. Can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles and use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: one skillet, hamburger helper, quick dinner, comfort food, ground beef, easy recipe, family meal

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