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Delicious Easy Cheesy Hamburger Helper dish ready to serve

Homemade Hamburger Helper

A creamy and cheesy one-pot meal combining ground beef, pasta, and rich flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Adds a fragrant, fruity base.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced Provides depth to the flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped Infuses a warm aroma.
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20) Provides a juicy fat content.
  • to taste Kosher salt Enhances flavors.
  • to taste Freshly ground black pepper Adds subtle heat.
Flavor Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste Gives tangy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder Adds a pinch of spice.
  • 3½ cups beef stock Provides a savory backdrop.
Pasta Ingredients
  • ½ pound pipe rigate or elbow pasta Cuddles cheese and sauce beautifully.
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream Creates a luscious texture.
  • 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese Adds a melty delight.
  • 2 tablespoons diced chives, divided For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Pour in the olive oil, allowing it to warm.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent (approx. 6 minutes).
  3. Incorporate the chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
  4. Introduce the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon and cooking until browned (about 8 minutes).
  5. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking
  1. Mix in the tomato paste and chili powder, stirring well.
  2. Pour in the beef stock, bring to a boil, then add the pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded Cheddar cheese until melted.
Serving
  1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with remaining chives.

Notes

For added texture, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms. Variations can substitute the pasta with gluten-free options or use ground turkey for a lighter version.