Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that's not only comforting but also bursting with cheesy goodness? Look no further than this irresistible Three Cheese Hamburger Helper! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, savory meal that will have your family begging for seconds. With a perfect blend of ground beef, elbow macaroni, and three types of cheese, this American classic is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Trust us, once you try this easy recipe, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 2 cups elbow macaroni, 2 cups beef broth, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef to the pan.
- Cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Once the beef is cooked, add the 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the skillet with the beef.
- Pour in the 2 cups of beef broth, stirring to combine the macaroni and beef evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
- After the macaroni is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Mix well until all the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve the Three Cheese Hamburger Helper hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Choose Quality Beef: For the best flavor, opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (like 80/20) to ensure your dish is juicy and rich.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the macaroni to simmer in the beef broth is crucial; it not only cooks the pasta but also infuses it with delicious beefy flavor.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! Adding a bit of pepper jack or gouda can give your dish an exciting twist.
- Season to Taste: Remember to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preference, and consider adding garlic powder or onion powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to thicken up nicely, making it even creamier and more delicious.
- Garnish for Flair: For a pop of color and added flavor, consider garnishing your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.Enjoy cooking your Three Cheese Hamburger Helper, and watch it become a family favorite in no time!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
