Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper Recipe

Welcome to a homey, comforting dish that redefines weeknight dinners—Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper! It’s an easy, soul-soothing meal that combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a one-pot pasta. If you’re looking for something convenient yet delicious, this dish is your go-to comfort food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe combines humble, accessible ingredients, each contributing its own magic to the final dish. From creamy cheese to aromatic garlic, here’s everything you need.

• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté the onion to a delightful tenderness.
• Large Onion: Adds a sweet undertone as it softens and releases its flavors.
• Ground Beef: For hearty, satisfying bites that deliver the classic burger taste.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce, delivering the perfect creamy consistency.
• Oregano: Dried oregano infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Offers a savory depth that complements the beef.
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
• Chili Powder: Adds a gentle warmth and a hint of spice.
• Macaroni: Any pasta works, but macaroni provides the best absorption and texture.
• Chicken Broth: Low sodium to control saltiness while adding depth.
• Milk: For that creamy, comforting sauce base.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a luscious, cheesy finish.
• Fresh Parsley: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color.

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to switch things up to suit your palate or dietary needs.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or additional veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

How to Make Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Prep Beef

Heat olive oil in your trusty Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in that finely chopped onion and let it soften, releasing its sweetness into the oil. Next, add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, ensuring a rich, flavorful base.

Step 2: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in cornstarch and your array of seasonings. Stir everything to coat the beef with flavor before adding your pasta, broth, and milk. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the pasta absorb all those savory notes.

Step 3: Cheese It Up

Once your pasta is al dente, stir in half the cheddar cheese for that cheesy goodness. Top with the remaining cheese and let it melt under a covered lid for the ultimate gooey finish.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper

Garnishes

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few scallions for a dash of color and a hint of fresh flavor. Even a dollop of sour cream can add an irresistible creaminess.

Side Dishes

Pair this Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper with a crisp green salad or some steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. Crusty bread is also a delightful accomplice to soak up the cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve in individual ramekins and broil for a slight crust on top. Alternatively, layer into a baking dish, add breadcrumbs, and bake for a deliciously crisp finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days, making them a perfect choice for meal prep.

Freezing

You can freeze your Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper for up to three months. Just ensure you pack it in a freezer-safe container, defrosting thoroughly before reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat your dish in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive its creamy consistency, or warm it in the microwave on medium power in 1-minute bursts to avoid drying.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t already fallen in love with Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper, now is the time. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and comfort make it a dish you’ll turn to time and time again. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with the scents of a hearty meal waiting to be shared!

Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 137 reviews

• Author: Jasmine
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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Description

This Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper combines tender pasta with seasoned ground beef and a cheesy sauce for a comforting homemade dish that mimics the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, made easily on the stovetop in about 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Protein & Dairy

– 1 tablespoon olive oil – 1 pound ground beef (extra lean) – 2 cups milk – 12 ounces cheddar cheese (shredded)

Vegetables & Aromatics

– 1 large onion (chopped) – 1 tablespoon parsley (fresh, chopped)

Pantry Staples & Seasonings

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch – 1 teaspoon dried oregano – 1 teaspoon garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste) – 1/2 teaspoon pepper (to taste) – 1 tablespoon chili powder

Pasta & Liquids

– 12 ounces uncooked macaroni or pasta of choice – 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium)

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Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
3. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for about 3 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
4. Add Seasonings and Thickener: Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the beef mixture, then add the oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
5. Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Stir everything together ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 1 minute over low heat until the cheese melts completely.
8. Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley, then serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

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Notes

• Leftovers: Let leftovers cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. Reheat within 3-4 days for best taste.
• Freezing: Portion leftovers in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3-4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Variations: Feel free to add diced pickles or ketchup for an extra burger flavor twist.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 520 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg