⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 25 minutes

Sometimes, you just want something cozy and satisfying that comes together fast—and this is that dinner. Think of it as Hamburger Helper’s cooler, homemade cousin: creamy, cheesy, beefy goodness with tender pasta and a secret veggie boost. It's the kind of dish kids devour and adults sneak seconds of.

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*Cheesy, beefy pasta that tastes like comfort in a bowl*

Let’s talk about the magic of this meal: it’s all done in one pot (yes, even the pasta cooks in there!), and you probably have everything in your pantry already. I like using lean ground beef for a classic cheeseburger feel, but the real secret is a bit of Worcestershire sauce and mustard—it adds that burger depth! And with all the melty cheddar and sneaky veggies stirred in, picky eaters will never know they’re getting a little fiber too.

I’ve tested this with different pasta shapes, and elbows or cavatappi are the clear winners for max sauce cling. This dish also reheats like a dream, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Just add a quick side salad or some steamed broccoli if you want to green things up!

The best part? You can toss everything in the pot, stir, and forget about it until it's time to add the cheese. No need to babysit a bunch of pans or prep a long ingredient list. This is weeknight comfort food, elevated and simplified.

Ingredients

🍽️ Servings: 6 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 420

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup finely shredded carrots (optional but stealthy!)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups beef broth
2 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
2½ cups dry elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Steps

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Step 2

Add the onion, garlic, and shredded carrots. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Stir in tomato paste, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.

Step 4

Pour in beef broth and milk. Stir in dry pasta and bring to a boil.

Step 5

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Step 6

Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese (if using) until melted and creamy.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with parsley or chives before serving.

Make it your own!

🥦 Boost the veggies by mixing in frozen peas, spinach, or riced cauliflower in the last 5 minutes.
🧀 Try it with pepper jack for a subtle kick.
🍗 Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
🌱 Make it vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat and veggie broth.
🔥 Add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika if your crew likes a little heat.