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Homemade Hamburger Helper

A quick and easy cheesy pasta dish combining ground beef and pasta, perfect for meal prep and adjustable to suit various dietary needs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
  • 2 cups Short Pasta (e.g., macaroni, penne) Whole grain or gluten-free pasta works for a healthier twist.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Adds flavor and sweetness.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Essential for depth and aroma.
  • 1 cup Cheese (e.g., Cheddar) Use your favorite type.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Infuses flavor into the dish.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Makes the sauce creamy.
  • to taste Seasoning (salt, pepper, optional paprika) Adjust to your palate.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking apart with a spatula and stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef in the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Let it cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the mixture to simmer and reduce slightly.
  2. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, combining thoroughly with the meat and sauce. Gradually add the cheese, mixing until it melts and forms a creamy sauce.
  3. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or chopped herbs if desired.

Notes

This recipe is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.