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Creamy Ground Beef Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 127 reviews

A classic and comforting Hamburger Helper recipe featuring ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Meat

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

Pasta

  • 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or small shape)

Liquids

  • 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or low-fat)

Dairy

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or blend)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  2. Brown Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook until the meat is fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan to reduce greasiness.
  3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the browned meat mixture. Pour in the beef broth and use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to deglaze, enhancing the flavor.
  4. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and milk to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy and cheesy sauce. Serve the dish warm and enjoy.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • Use vegetable broth to make the dish suitable for those avoiding beef.
  • For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.

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