Homemade Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper

By Foodiewife

There are a few things I love about this recipe: It is how easy it is to make, without fancy ingredients. It's a one-pan dinner (makes for less cleanup) and-- it's comforting and delicious. The big bonus...you made it yourself without any scary ingredients from a box! This tastes even better the next day, and makes a perfect re-heatable lunchbox item for the office. Recipe slightly adapted from "The Daring Gourmet".

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (you can substitute olive or vegetable oil)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 3/4 cup natural, non-MSG beef broth
• 2 cups dried elbow macaroni pasta (can substitute whole wheat if desired)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp, your choice)

Preparation

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef until no pink remains.

Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings and flour.

Pour in the milk and broth and stir.

Stir in the macaroni.

Bring to a boil then reduce to medium-low, cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until the macaroni is done. (For al dente check after 9 minutes.)

Stir in the Cheddar cheese until melted.

Serve immediately garnished with some chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Reheats well.