Description
A quick and comforting one-pot meal combining ground beef, pasta, and creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or penne or farfalle)
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favorite spices (e.g., smoked paprika, cayenne)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic, allowing them to soften and release their aroma.
- Stir in the pasta, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce to a simmer, cover, and let it cook until the pasta absorbs the broth and becomes al dente, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the dairy of choice, allowing it to meld into a creamy consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, and consider topping with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices. Avoid overcrowding the pan for better browning of the meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: hamburger helper, one pot meal, comfort food, quick dinner, family recipe