This recipe came to life one hectic evening when I opened my pantry and found that staple package of macaroni and that trusty pound of ground beef. Like a lightbulb turning on, I knew I could whip something up that would have the whole family coming back for seconds. It’s easy, quick, and let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good, cheesy pasta dish?
What makes this Homemade Hamburger dish a go-to option is the fact that it’s all made in one pot, which means less fuss and far fewer dishes to clean afterward. It combines hearty flavors and creamy textures to create a meal that warms the soul. Plus, with ingredients like cheddar cheese and savory herbs, it’s got that restaurant-quality taste without costing an arm and a leg. When you’re trying to manage family, work, and everything else life throws at you, simple yet satisfying recipes like this can be a real lifesaver.
Don’t just take my word for it—give it a try! I promise, this meal will make it to your regular dinner rotation in no time. So let’s get cooking and create some delicious memories with our loved ones. Trust me, once you’ve made this dish, you’ll be sharing this gem with everyone you know!
How to Make Homemade Hamburger
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Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
Directions:
- Warm a sizable skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook while breaking it apart into smaller bits until it browns.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, and salt. Mix in the tomato paste until well incorporated.
- Pour the chicken broth and milk into the skillet. Then, add in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly cooked.
- Remove from heat. Throw in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is gooey and creamy. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storing Suggestion:
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to regain the creamy texture.
Cooking Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add other seasonings like paprika or cayenne pepper if you want to kick up the heat. For a thicker sauce, mix a bit more cheddar cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs excellently with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables. If you’re feeling indulgent, a side of buttery garlic bread complements the cheesy flavors perfectly. For beverages, a glass of iced tea or a light soda works well.
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you’re out of elbow macaroni, you can use any short pasta you have on hand like penne or rotini. For a different cheese flavor, try substituting the cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyere. Plant-based milk can be used if you’re looking to reduce dairy.
Seasonal Variations:
During summer, add freshly chopped tomatoes or bell peppers for a garden-fresh touch. In the fall, a dash of nutmeg can enhance the warm flavors. Feel free to adjust the herbs based on what’s fresh and available!
Allergen Information:
This dish contains dairy and gluten, which may cause issues for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Substitute gluten-free pasta and plant-based cheese to make it more allergen-friendly. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re uncertain.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese provides a classic taste, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Gouda, or even pepper jack if you want some spice. Changing the cheese may alter the flavor profile slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stove, adding a bit of milk if needed to retain creaminess.
What can I add to boost the flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients such as diced onions, minced garlic, or red pepper flakes. Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano right before serving will also brighten up the dish and make it more aromatic.
Could I make this dish vegetarian?
Turning this recipe into a vegetarian dish is simple. Swap out the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles or extra vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini. Also, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to maintain a vegetarian-friendly dish.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
To avoid mushy pasta, ensure you don’t overcook it. Taste test the pasta a couple of times during the simmering phase. Once it reaches an ‘al dente’ texture, remove it from the heat promptly to stop further cooking.
Why does the cheese sauce curdle?
Cheese sauce can curdle or separate due to high heat or too much acidic content. To prevent this, keep the heat at a medium-low setting when adding the cheese, and stir constantly. Ensure the mixture is creamy before turning off the heat and serving promptly.
Homemade Hamburger (One Pot)
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat, then add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns.
- Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir in the tomato paste until combined.
- Pour in the broth and milk, then toss in the uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
- Turn off the heat, add shredded cheddar, and stir until melted and creamy. Enjoy!
