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Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet Recipe

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4.4 from 64 reviews

This classic Hamburger Helper recipe is a quick and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy cheesy sauce infused with garlic, onion, and Italian seasonings. Ideal for busy weeknights, it combines simple pantry ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

Meat and Dairy

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or low-fat)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blend)

Pasta and Broth

  • 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or small shape)
  • 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil (for sautĂ©ing)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Brown Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
  3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits and enhance flavor.
  4. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and milk to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until it melts smoothly into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the hamburger helper warm for a hearty and delicious meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas can boost nutrition and add freshness.

Find it online: https://oliviabakes.com/creamy-ground-beef-pasta-skillet-recipe/