The whole family will enjoy this Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni Casserole recipe made entirely in one pot. If you're seeking a simple meal for busy weeknights that even picky eaters will like, look no further!
Are you tired of the same old boring weeknight meals? Looking for something quick, easy, and oh-so delicious to become a family favorite? Well, my friend, I've got just the thing for you: Homemade One Pot Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper. It's everything you love about the classic boxed version, but made from scratch with a touch of love and a whole lot of flavor. Trust me, once you try this homemade version, you'll never go back to the store-bought stuff.
We would love to hear from you in the comments and ratings below!
Try some of our other favorites, such as Pizza Casserole, Pierogi Casserole, or Philly Cheesesteak Casserole.
Jump to:
Ingredients for Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni
- lean ground beef
- elbow macaroni
- small onion, diced
- garlic, minced
- Worcestershire sauce
- tomato paste
- salt, pepper to taste
- ketchup
- yellow mustard
- dill pickle relish
- beef broth
- shredded cheddar cheese
- sour cream
- milk
FAQs
One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with macaroni pasta. It's cooked in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. The dish typically includes ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a savory tomato-based sauce.
One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is a hearty dish that can be served on its own or with simple sides such as a green salad, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a side of coleslaw.
To make One-Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni healthier, you can:
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
Use whole wheat or high-fiber pasta.
Add more vegetables to the dish.
Use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
Top Tips
- Any short pasta will work, from shells, corkscrew, elbows, fusilli or bow ties.
- Not all pasta shapes are created equal, and each may require different cooking times. If you decide to switch up the pasta in your homemade cheeseburger hamburger helper, be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly. Larger shapes like rigatoni or penne might need a few extra minutes to become perfectly al dente, while smaller shapes like macaroni or shells might cook faster. Keep an eye on the pasta and taste-test along the way to ensure you achieve that perfect texture.
- While the classic recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh. Feel free to experiment and find the option that suits your taste and dietary preferences.
- Sharp cheddar cheese works perfectly in this recipe but try any of your favorite cheeses.
- If possible, shred the cheese yourself so you do not have the anti-caking agent used in bagged shredded cheese. Anti-caking makes the cheese not melt as well.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and spices to enhance the flavor profile. Want a little kick? Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder. Feeling adventurous? Throw in some smoked paprika or garlic powder for an extra punch. The possibilities are endless, so let your taste buds be your guide!
- To create a well-rounded meal, pair your homemade cheeseburger hamburger helper with some nutritious side dishes. A simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish. Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, add color and vitamins to your plate. If you're looking for something heartier, consider serving it alongside some buttery cornbread or a side garlic bread. The choice is yours!
- To store in the refrigerator, place any leftover cheeseburger macaroni into an airtight container for up to 4 days.
How to make Homemade Cheeseburger Macaroni
- In a large skillet, cook and crumble the hamburger over medium-high heat. Add in onions, minced garlic, salt and pepper, until the meat is browned and onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, until well combined.
- Add beef broth and uncooked macaroni noodles, stir to incorporate.
- Stir in ketchup, mustard, then cover and simmer over medium to medium-low heat. Every 5-10 minutes, stir until noodles are al dente.
- Once noodles are al dente, reduce to low heat and mix in sour cream, milk and relish.
- Add 2 cups of shredded cheese and stir to combine.
- Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Cover until cheese is melted, then serve and enjoy!
One Pot Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic (2-3 cloves), minced
- 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- salt, pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (separated into 2 cups and 1 cup)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ⅔ cup milk
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook and crumble the hamburger. Add in onions, minced garlic, salt and pepper, until the meat is browned and onions are softened. Drain any grease.
- Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, until well combined.
- Add beef broth and uncooked macaroni noodles, stir to incorporate.
- Stir in ketchup, mustard, then cover and simmer over medium to medium-low heat. Every 5-10 minutes, stir until noodles are al dente.
- Once noodles are al dente, reduce heat to low and mix in sour cream, milk and relish.
- Add 2 cups of shredded cheese and stir to combine.
- Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Cover until cheese is melted, then serve and enjoy!
Leave a Reply