Description
This Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper combines the comfort of classic cheeseburgers with quick, stove-top cooking. Loaded with ground beef, macaroni, and melted cheddar cheese, it offers a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. The dish is seasoned with herbs and spices, offering a savory taste that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 1 pound ground beef extra lean
- 12 ounce macaroni uncooked, or any other pasta such as shells
Seasonings and Thickening
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper or to taste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
Liquids and Cheese
- 3 cups chicken broth low sodium or beef broth
- 2 cup milk
- 12 ounce cheddar cheese shredded
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon parsley fresh, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté the onion: Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it softens and turns translucent.
- Add ground beef: Add the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink.
- Mix in seasonings: Sprinkle cornstarch evenly over the beef, then add oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Add pasta and liquids: Stir in macaroni, then pour in chicken broth and milk. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the pasta: Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Add cheese and melt: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, then top with remaining cheese. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 minute until cheese melts.
- Finish and serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Leftovers: Let the dish come to room temperature before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Freezing: Store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3-4 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Nutrition adjustments: You can substitute with low-fat or alternative cheeses for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 746 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 695 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 121 mg
