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5.0 from 42 votes

Homemade Lightened Up Hamburger Helper (One-Pot)

This Lightened Up Hamburger Helper is truly the best homemade version of the classic cheeseburger macaroni recipe you grew up eating! It's seriously WAY better than the boxed version and is made with simple ingredients, only requires one pot and is ready in just 30 minutes. It's cozy, comforting and perfect for busy weeknights! 

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
30 mins
Servings: 5
Calories: 484 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion (80g) finely diced
  • 1 Tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tsp each: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
  • 1.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1.5 cups low-fat milk (360g)
  • 8 oz. cavatappi pasta or elbow
  • 6 oz. sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated - about 2 cups
  • 2 tsp yellow mustard
  • parsley for garnishing

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Spray a large skillet with cooking spray. Add the onions and ground beef and cook over medium heat, breaking the meat up with a wooden spoon as you go, until no longer pink.
  2. Sprinkle the cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, sugar and pepper over the browned meat. Stir and continue to break up the meat as you mix the spices in.
  3. Add the broth, milk, and pasta, then bring to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add more broth or water if needed.
  5. Add the cheese and stir until melted into the sauce. Then stir in the mustard. Remove from the heat, and let sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and more shredded cheese, if desired, and serve!

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in a small saucepan on stovetop over medium-low heat. You can also reheat in the microwave.
  • To freeze, place leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Information

Serving 1.5cups (253g) Calories 484kcal (24%) Carbohydrates 40g (13%) Protein 45g (90%) Fat 16g (25%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 5Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 484

% Daily Value*

Serving 1.5cups (253g)
Calories 484kcal 24%
Carbohydrates 40g 13%
Protein 45g 90%
Fat 16g 25%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.