Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Skillet is a homemade version of the classic Hamburger Helper, delivering a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Ground beef is browned with onions and garlic, then simmered with a savory mixture of brown gravy, cheddar cheese soup, and elbow macaroni until perfectly tender. Finished with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, this skillet meal offers a delicious, family-friendly dinner in just 45 minutes.
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 (0.87 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, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onions over medium heat until the beef is completely browned. Drain off any excess grease, then return the skillet with the beef to the heat.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. If using garlic powder instead, it will be added later with dry seasonings.
- Add Gravy Mix, Cheese Soup, and Liquid: Stir in the brown gravy mix, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and water (or beef broth). Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly. If using onion and garlic powder instead of fresh, add them at this stage.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni to the skillet and stir well so the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the mixture has thickened.
- Stir in the Cheddar Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- You can substitute beef broth for the water to enhance the flavor.
- If fresh onion and garlic are not available, onion and garlic powders work well as replacements.
- Stir occasionally while simmering the pasta to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef and reduce cheese amounts as preferred.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
