Description

Creamy homemade hamburger helper made with ground beef, pasta, broccoli, and cheddar cheese. A comforting one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef

6 ounces dry chickpea pasta shells or elbow pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

2 1/2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces

2/3 cup finely diced yellow onion

2 teaspoons minced garlic

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1/3 cup light cream

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Place a large skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 7 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until fully browned. Transfer the cooked beef to a bowl and set aside.

2. While the beef cooks, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Wipe the skillet clean and return it to medium-high heat. Add the oil, chopped broccoli, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well so everything is evenly coated.

5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in the milk, about one cup at a time, whisking constantly after each addition to keep the sauce smooth. Continue cooking for about 8 minutes until the mixture thickens.

6. Stir in the cream, tomato paste, mustard, shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.

7. Add the cooked pasta and browned beef back into the skillet. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Serve warm.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for a smoother sauce.

Chickpea pasta increases protein and fiber but regular pasta works well too.

Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to restore the creamy texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Easy Dinner Ideas
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American