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Easy Homemade Cheesy Hamburger Helper Recipe with 5 Simple Steps

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A quick and easy homemade cheesy hamburger helper recipe that combines seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp (15 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups (600 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 oz (56 g) cream cheese
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt to taste (start with ½ tsp)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Make the roux: Lower heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter to the skillet with the beef. Once melted, sprinkle in 2 tbsp (15 g) all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste and create a smooth base.
  4. Add milk and cheese: Gradually whisk in 2 ½ cups (600 ml) milk to avoid lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 2 oz (56 g) cream cheese until melted and silky smooth.
  5. Combine everything: Return the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat evenly in the cheesy beef sauce. Season with 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt, and ½ tsp black pepper to taste. Add smoked paprika or chili flakes if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it. If too thin, simmer a bit longer over low heat. Use freshly grated cheese for best melting results. Browning the beef well adds depth of flavor. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free blend or cornstarch. For dairy-free, use almond milk and vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy hamburger helper, homemade hamburger helper, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, comfort food, family meal, quick recipe

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