Dinner

Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan October 20, 2025October 20, 2025

Introduction

This Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni is a comforting, cheesy skillet meal that’s quick and easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines savory ground beef with tender macaroni in a creamy cheese sauce.

A close-up view of a black pan filled with cooked elbow macaroni pasta mixed thoroughly with browned ground beef. The macaroni is bright yellow with a smooth, slightly glossy texture, and the ground beef pieces are small, crumbly with a rich brown color. There is a wooden spoon partially seen stirring the mixture from the top left corner. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound Ground Beef
1 1/2 cups water

2 cups milk
2 cups Elbow Macaroni

1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
1 1/2 tablespoons Cornstarch

3 teaspoons Paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons Onion Powder
1 1/2 teaspoons Garlic Powder

1 1/2 teaspoons Salt
1 1/2 teaspoons Sugar
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, sugar, black pepper, and cornstarch. Add this seasoning blend to the drained beef and stir well to combine.
Step 3: Pour in the hot water, milk, and elbow macaroni. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely. Remove the skillet from heat and let it stand for a few minutes to thicken the sauce.
Step 5: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your homemade cheeseburger macaroni.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding diced onions or bell peppers while browning the beef.

Swap cheddar cheese for a blend of mozzarella and gouda for a different cheesy twist.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy macaroni and ground meat. The dish has three layers visible: the bottom layer is soft elbow macaroni with a smooth yellow cheese sauce coating it, the middle layer is browned ground meat scattered throughout the macaroni, and the top layer is fresh green parsley leaves sprinkled over the pasta. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and a spoon is partially visible in the bowl, ready to scoop the food. In the background, part of a pan with more macaroni is seen out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne work well as substitutes for elbow macaroni in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dish as directed, cool it completely, then refrigerate. Reheat thoroughly before serving, adding a little milk if needed to loosen the sauce.