Cheese Steak Hamburger Helper

 Cheese Steak Hamburger Helper – The Ultimate One-Pan Skillet Dinner

If you love the bold, savory taste of a Philly cheesesteak and crave an easy, cheesy, comforting meal, this recipe is your new best friend. Our Cheese Steak Hamburger Helper brings you all the classic flavors—seasoned ground beef, sautéed peppers and onions, gooey melted cheese, and tender pasta—all cooked in one pan. It’s fast, affordable, and made with pantry staples, perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional: mix in red or yellow for color)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 2 cups beef broth (or 2 cups water + 1 beef bouillon cube)
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 2 cups dry pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or shells)
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for richness)
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the beef
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Sauté the vegetables
    Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
  3. Season everything
    Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Stir to coat the meat and veggies with flavor.
  4. Add liquids & pasta
    Pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir well, then add the dry pasta directly into the skillet. Bring to a light boil.
  5. Simmer
    Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
  6. Make it cheesy
    Turn off the heat. Stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy and luscious.
  7. Let it sit
    Cover the skillet and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it stands, and flavors will deepen.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of black pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations:

  • Swap mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for a Philly cheesesteak vibe.
  • Add sliced mushrooms or jalapeños for extra flavor.
  • Want a creamier finish? Stir in 2 tbsp cream cheese before serving.
  • Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  •  Only one pan needed—less mess, less cleanup.
  • Family-friendly comfort food.
  •  Budget-friendly using common ingredients.
  •  Ready in under 30 minutes.
  •  Hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 40g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g

 

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