Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper

5 from 1 vote

Homemade Hamburger Helper made healthier in under a half hour! It's easy, cheesy comfort food and always a family favorite!

Prep Time15

Cook Time25

Total Time40

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 710kcal

Add onions to a large saucepan with olive oil. Cook over low-medium heat for 1-2 minutes or until onions have become semi-translucent and fragrant.
½ yellow onion, ½ tablespoon olive oil
Add ground beef and continue to cook over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes or until the beef is fully browned. When done, drain beef over a bed of paper towels and return to the saucepan.
1 pound lean ground beef
Stir in the tomato paste, worcestershire sauce and seasonings. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring and mixing frequently.
2 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon pepper
Add in the elbow macaroni, beef broth and heavy whipping cream and bring heat to high. Stir frequently as the mixture comes to a light boil (adjust your heat if needed). When boiling, place a lid over the pot and cook for an additional 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally.
1 pound box of elbow macaroni, 4 cups beef broth, 1 cup heavy whipping cream
During the last minute of cooking, top with cheese and stir until fully melted and combined into the dish.
2 cups cheddar cheese
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Add additional salt and pepper to taste as needed.

Storage:

To Store: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the liquid over time.
To Freeze: Once cooled to room temperature, you can store your hamburger helper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Reheat your hamburger helper on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a bit of broth to bring back its creaminess

Tips:

When mixing in the tomato paste, you have to stirwell. You’ll almost want to press it into the meat for it to mix. It will also mix much more as it’s combined with the liquids.
This dish is moist throughout, not dry. The liquid will be soaked up with the noodles, but never dried out. However, if you’re noticing that your dish is looking too dry while cooking, add in additional heavy whipping cream and/or broth. Work ½ cup at a time as needed.
You can garnish this dish with fresh chopped parsley.
Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or simply water can also be used for this recipe if necessary.