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One Pot Cheeseburger Helper

One Pot Cheeseburger Helper: Quick, Cheesy, Family Favorite

Quick One Pot Cheeseburger Helper is a nostalgic dish full of comforting flavors, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Substitution: Can use canola or avocado oil for a lighter option.
  • 1 small Onion Diced small for even cooking.
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Substitution: Ground turkey or bison can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can be replaced with ketchup if in need.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Substitution: Regular paprika can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Dusting of fresh garlic can also be added.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional enhancement.
  • 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt/Table Salt Adjust salt levels to taste if using seasoned salt.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste Freshly ground enhances flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free option: Use cornstarch with a bit of water at the end.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Substitution: Chicken broth can be used for a lighter flavor.
  • 1 cup Milk Whole or 2% milk recommended; avoid skim for the best result.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Cavatappi Pasta/Macaroni Any small pasta can be substituted, like penne or rotini.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Grating your own cheese for best results is recommended.

Equipment

  • Large deep sauté pan or cast iron skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large deep sauté pan or cast iron skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add one small diced onion to the pan and cook, stirring often, for about 5 minutes or until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Incorporate 1 pound of lean ground beef into the sautéed onions, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it deepens in color and mixes well with the meat.
  5. Mix in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder (if using), 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for another minute.
  7. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of milk, stirring until completely combined.
  8. Add 2 cups of cavatappi pasta to the bubbling sauce and stir well. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  9. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and fold in 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This One Pot Cheeseburger Helper is a versatile dish that is perfect for family meals, making it both a comforting and delicious choice for any weeknight dinner.

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