Description

A creamy, cheesy, one-pot skillet meal that recreates the nostalgic Hamburger Helper with fresh ingredients and pantry staples, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

3/4 pound 93% lean ground beef

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, chopped

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1/4 cup tomato sauce (or passata/puree)

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 cups chicken broth

3/4 cup 2% milk (or dairy‑free milk)

8 ounces dry pasta (cavatappi, rotini, elbows, shells, or gluten‑free)

1 cup part‑skim sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy‑free cheese)

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Instructions

Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, salt, and paprika. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the meat is browned, breaking it into small pieces.
Stir in chopped onion and garlic; cook until aromatic, about 2–3 minutes.
Add tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the mixture is slightly dry and beginning to caramelize.
Pour in chicken broth and add pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until pasta is nearly tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Uncover, stir in milk, cover again, and simmer on medium-low for another 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce is creamy.
Remove from heat, uncover, and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve hot.

Notes

Use dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version.
Adjust seasonings if using milder meats like turkey or plant-based crumbles.
For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk when reheating.
Top with fresh herbs, Parmesan, or hot sauce for added flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg