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Hamburger Helper Style Family Dinner

Who says you need the boxed version when you can make this creamy, cheesy pasta dish from scratch for way less? This homemade version tastes even better than the original, and you probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. It's a one-pot wonder that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion and garlic until meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add the uncooked macaroni, beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  5. Let stand for 3-5 minutes to thicken, then serve hot. The sauce will continue to thicken as it sits.