Introduction
Are you ready to dive into a bowl of Cheesy Beefy Bliss? This Homemade Hamburger Helper is the cozy dinner your weeknight has been craving, packed with all the deliciousness you can dream of. Perfect for busy evenings, this one-pot wonder offers a warm, comforting meal that the whole family will love. Let’s get started on whipping up this delectable dish!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. In a large skillet, sizzle the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat because we want delicious, not greasy!
2. Toss in those diced onions, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine all the flavors of happiness.
3. Pour in the beef broth and macaroni, giving it a lovely stir. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a cozy simmer. Cover it up and let it cook for about 12 minutes or until the macaroni is soft and has soaked up all that flavor.
4. Remove the lid and add a splash of milk and the cheese. Stir until everything is silky and the cheese is ooey-gooey perfection.
5. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite with your family or friends!
Nutritional Info
Per serving, this dish contains approximately:
Calories: 410
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 23g
Fiber: 1g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, sizzle the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat because we want delicious, not greasy!
Step 2: Add the Onions and Spices
Toss in those diced onions, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine all the flavors of happiness.
Step 3: Add Broth and Macaroni
Pour in the beef broth and macaroni, giving it a lovely stir. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a cozy simmer. Cover it up and let it cook for about 12 minutes or until the macaroni is soft and soaks up all that flavor.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Milk
Remove the lid and add a splash of milk and the cheese. Stir until everything is silky and the cheese is ooey-gooey perfection.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite with your family or friends!
Notes
Make it Cheesy
Feel free to add more cheese if you desire extra cheesiness!
Vegetable Add-Ins
You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Cooking Time Variations
Cooking times may vary based on your stove and the size of the macaroni used. Adjust accordingly.
Cook techniques
Ground Beef Searing
Searing the ground beef over medium-high heat creates a rich flavor and locks in moisture, ensuring a juicy consistency.
Flavor Development
Adding onions, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to the browned beef enhances the dish’s depth of flavor. Cook until the onions are translucent to maximize sweetness.
Simmering
Allowing the macaroni to simmer in beef broth ensures it absorbs the flavors while becoming tender. Covering the skillet helps retain moisture and heat.
Cheese Incorporation
Adding cheese and milk at the end creates a creamy texture. Stir until completely melted for a smooth, cheesy finish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta types such as shells or rotini, but you may need to adjust cooking times.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes for a leaner or vegetarian option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This Homemade Hamburger Helper is not only delicious but also straightforward to make. Enjoy the comfort of a hearty meal that brings family and friends together!
