Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Skillet is a quick and comforting homemade version of Hamburger Helper, combining ground beef, tender macaroni, and gooey cheddar cheese in a savory gravy sauce. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a perfect family-friendly, one-pan meal that delivers classic, cheesy flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped (or 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 3 cups water or beef broth
- 1 (.87 to 1.0-ounce) packet brown gravy mix
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is fully browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease from the skillet and return the beef mixture to the heat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
- Add gravy and cheese soup: Stir in the brown gravy mix, cheddar cheese soup, and water (or beef broth). Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly. If you opted for onion and garlic powders instead of fresh, add them now.
- Cook the pasta: Pour in the uncooked macaroni, stirring well to coat all the pasta in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
- Stir in shredded cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the mixture is creamy. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute beef broth for water to enhance the flavor further.
- Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste, especially if using unsalted broth.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef and use reduced-fat cheese.
- Covering the skillet while simmering helps the pasta cook evenly and absorb flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
