Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Skillet is a homemade version of the classic Hamburger Helper, combining browned ground beef, savory onion and garlic, rich cheddar cheese soup, hearty macaroni, and an easy brown gravy mix all cooked together in one skillet. Ready in under an hour, it’s a comforting and cheesy meal perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 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)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 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
Pasta and Cheese
- 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 with the chopped onion until the beef is completely browned and the onions are softened. Drain excess grease from the skillet and return the meat mixture to the heat.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned, to release its flavor.
- Add Sauces and Seasoning: Stir in the brown gravy mix, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and 3 cups of water (or beef broth). If using onion and garlic powders instead of fresh, add these now. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni to the skillet and stir well so the pasta is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm (al dente) or cooked to your preference.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the cover and stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese. Continue cooking briefly until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Serve the cheesy hamburger skillet immediately while hot and comforting.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the water quantity slightly or cook uncovered in the last few minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
- Using beef broth instead of water will add more depth of flavor to the dish.
- For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey.
- You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
