Go Back
–+ servings
One Pot Cheeseburger Helper

One Pot Cheeseburger Helper: Quick Comfort Food Bliss

Enjoy a quick and easy One Pot Cheeseburger Helper that's perfect for family dinners and full of nostalgic flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Let It Rest 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can be substituted with canola oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 small Onion, diced Use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can be swapped for ground turkey or bison.
For the Flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste Can be substituted with ketchup.
  • 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika Use regular paprika for a milder flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons Seasoned Salt Can substitute with table salt.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Can be omitted.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground, adjust to taste.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons All-purpose Flour Use cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Chicken broth can also be used.
  • 1.5 cups Milk Whole or 2% is ideal.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Cavatappi Pasta Any small pasta like elbow or penne is acceptable.
For the Cheese
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated Freshly grated cheese is recommended.

Equipment

  • Large deep sauté pan or cast iron skillet

Method
 

Steps
  1. Melt the butter over medium heat in a large sauté pan until fully melted and bubbling.
  2. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until aromatic.
  5. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, sugar, black pepper, and flour. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
  6. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil.
  7. Add the cavatappi pasta, stir gently, reduce heat, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
  8. Remove from heat, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  9. Let the dish rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to set.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Customize your One Pot Cheeseburger Helper by adding your favorite toppings, such as diced pickles or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!