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Creamy Cheesy Hamburger Helper Skillet Recipe Easy Homemade Comfort Food

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A quick and easy one-pan meal combining ground beef, pasta, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce for a comforting and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 2 cups dry medium pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Push the beef to one side and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the beef and onion mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and thicken the sauce.
  4. Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring, then add milk. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens.
  5. Add dry pasta directly into the skillet. Stir to keep pasta submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is tender.
  6. Remove lid and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is silky.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot straight from the skillet.

Notes

If sauce is too thick after adding cheese, stir in a splash of milk to loosen. If too thin, simmer uncovered a few minutes. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. Adjust seasoning at the end to avoid over-salting. For gluten-free, substitute flour and pasta accordingly. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: hamburger helper, creamy skillet, cheesy pasta, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, one-pan meal

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