Description
This Easy Hamburger Helper Macaroni is a homemade twist on the classic boxed meal featuring seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick, comforting family dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to heat up before adding any ingredients.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Cook the macaroni: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate the cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy, enriching the sauce.
- Serve hot: Transfer to plates or bowls and serve immediately while warm and comforting.
Notes
- For extra vegetables and nutrition, stir in fresh or frozen peas or chopped broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Substitute ground turkey for ground beef to make a lighter version of this dish.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 4 days for best quality.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
