Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Skillet is a delicious homemade version of the classic Hamburger Helper. Ground beef is browned and simmered with savory onions, garlic, a savory brown gravy mix, and creamy cheddar cheese soup, then combined with macaroni pasta and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Ready in just 45 minutes, this comforting skillet meal serves up to six people and makes for an easy, satisfying dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 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 Sauces
- 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
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is fully browned. Drain excess grease, then return the skillet to the stove.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. If you are substituting garlic and onion powders for fresh, add them at this stage instead.
- Add gravy mix, cheese soup, and water: Stir in the brown gravy mix, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and the 3 cups of water (or beef broth). Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Cook the macaroni: Add the uncooked macaroni pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente or cooked to your desired tenderness.
- Melt in the shredded cheese: Once the macaroni is cooked, stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the sauce is creamy. Serve the skillet immediately while hot.
Notes
- If using onion and garlic powder instead of fresh, add them after browning the beef along with the gravy and soup.
- Using beef broth instead of water will add extra depth of flavor.
- For a richer dish, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cheese.
- To make it gluten free, substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free gravy mix and soup.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
