A cozy family dinner scene with a steaming pot of cheesy hamburger macaroni on a stove. The creamy sauce is bubbling gently, with bright orange cheddar cheese melted over tender elbow macaroni and juicy ground beef scattered throughout. A wooden spoon rests in the pot, ready to serve. A bowl of fresh parsley adds a pop of green to the warm scene. In the background, a loaf of crusty bread and a pitcher of iced tea are placed. The title text "One Pot Easy Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni" is overlaid in a soft feminine country font.

One Pot Easy Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni (Homemade Hamburger Helper)

Creamy, cheesy, and full of hearty ground beef, this DIY Hamburger Helper is the perfect Lazy Night Dinner for the whole family.

Servings: 6

There’s something magical about bringing a boxed classic to life with fresher ingredients, and this One Pot Easy Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni does just that. This recipe is perfect for Recipes Hamburger lovers and families looking for quick, hearty meals. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight or planning Dinners for Large Families, this dish will have everyone running to the table. It’s a Lazy Casserole turned into a stovetop wonder that’s rich, creamy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Bring back the joy of Dinner Lazy style, without sacrificing flavor or quality.

A cozy kitchen scene with a steaming pot of cheesy hamburger macaroni on a stove. The pot's creamy sauce is bubbling gently, with bright orange cheddar cheese melted over tender elbow macaroni and juicy ground beef scattered throughout. A wooden spoon rests in the pot, ready to serve, and a bowl of fresh parsley adds a pop of green to the warm, inviting scene. In the background, a loaf of crusty bread and a pitcher of iced tea complete the image of a cozy family dinner. The title text "One Pot Easy Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni" is overlaid in a soft feminine country font.

 

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Supplies Needed

  • Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the uncooked macaroni and cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Freezer: This dish freezes well! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

  • Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest results, grate your own cheese.
  • Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by stirring in frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Adjust the Seasoning: Customize the flavor by adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist.
  • Time-Saving Hack: Make this a true Lazy Night Dinner by prepping all ingredients ahead of time for even quicker assembly.

Variations

  • Slow Cooker Version: Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add all ingredients except the cheese and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Stir in the cheese before serving.
  • Instant Pot Option: Use the sauté function to brown the beef and onion, then add all ingredients except the cheese. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes and quick release. Stir in the cheese until melted.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or mushrooms for a meatless Pan Dishes option.
  • Ground Beef Casserole Recipes Idea: Transfer the cooked macaroni to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 3-5 minutes for a crispy topping.
  • Million Dollar Hamburger Helper: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for an even richer flavor.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well, but cooking times may vary.

Q: How do I prevent the macaroni from sticking to the pan?
A: Stir the mixture occasionally while simmering to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that all other ingredients, like broth, are gluten-free.

Q: What sides go well with this dish?
A: A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed broccoli are great options to complete the meal.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

A cozy kitchen scene with a steaming pot of cheesy hamburger macaroni on a stove. The pot's creamy sauce is bubbling gently, with bright orange cheddar cheese melted over tender elbow macaroni and juicy ground beef scattered throughout. A wooden spoon rests in the pot, ready to serve, and a bowl of fresh parsley adds a pop of green to the warm, inviting scene. In the background, a loaf of crusty bread and a pitcher of iced tea complete the image of a cozy family dinner. The title text "One Pot Easy Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni" is overlaid in a soft feminine country font.

One Pot Easy Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni (Homemade Hamburger Helper)

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this one-pot hamburger macaroni is a quick and easy Lazy Night Dinner your whole family will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions
 

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Stir in the uncooked macaroni and cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Keyword Ground Beef Casserole Recipes, Lazy Night Dinner, Recipes Hamburger

 

 

Scroll to Top