Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering feast in just 30 minutes? Say hello to the ultimate comfort food: Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper Mix! This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of macaroni, making it a family favorite that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Get ready to elevate your dinner game and discover the secrets to this easy, cheesy delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 box hamburger helper cheeseburger macaroni
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of ground beef, 1 box of Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni, 2 cups of water, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a large skillet, heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks.
- Cook the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. This will help reduce the fat content of your dish.
- After draining, return the skillet with the cooked beef to the heat. Add 2 cups of water and 1 cup of milk to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef.
- Next, pour the entire contents of the Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni box into the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the pasta to cook and absorb the flavors.
- After the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and combined.
- Once the cheese is melted, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add salt, pepper, or any other spices to your liking.
- Serve the cheeseburger macaroni hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep your dish flavorful yet healthier. If you prefer, you can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
- Don’t Skip the Drain: After browning the beef, make sure to drain the excess grease. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced flavor and preventing your dish from becoming too greasy.
- Stir Frequently: While the pasta simmers, stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. This ensures even cooking and a creamy sauce.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! A mix of cheddar and mozzarella or even pepper jack can add a unique twist to your cheeseburger macaroni.
- Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition of your meal by adding in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach when cooking the beef. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: For a finishing touch, top your cheeseburger macaroni with extra shredded cheese or freshly chopped green onions before serving. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish’s appearance and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 648kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
