Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Any small to medium pasta shape works well in this recipe. Try shells, rotini, or bow ties. Just be aware that different pasta shapes may require slight adjustments to cooking time, so keep an eye on your pasta's doneness.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To create a lighter version, use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.

Can I prepare this dish without the canned soup?

Yes, you can substitute the canned soup with 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of additional shredded cheese mixed with 1 tablespoon of flour. Whisk this mixture into the skillet after the pasta is cooked, and simmer until thickened.

My family doesn't like onions. Can I leave them out?

Certainly! The onion powder alternative works perfectly in this recipe. You can also try grating the onion instead of chopping it, which allows the flavor to come through while making the pieces virtually undetectable in the final dish.

Cheesy Hamburger Skillet Recipe

Name: Cheesy Hamburger Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped (or 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder); 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder); 3 cups water or beef broth; 1 (.87 to 1.0-ounce) packet brown gravy mix; 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup; 2 cups uncooked macaroni; 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese

This Cheesy Hamburger Skillet is the ultimate comfort food that brings together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and creamy cheese in one magnificent pan. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The familiar flavors will remind you of the boxed hamburger helper from childhood, but this homemade version delivers so much more flavor and goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your evening.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike go crazy for this cheesy, beefy goodness. It’s the kind of meal that disappears quickly and has everyone asking for seconds.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef and pasta, this recipe gives you maximum flavor without breaking the bank.
Customizable: The basic recipe is fantastic as is, but you can easily adapt it with different add-ins to suit your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Beef: The star protein that gives this dish its hearty foundation. I recommend using 80/20 beef for the best flavor, but leaner options work too if you prefer.
Onion: Adds essential aromatic flavor that builds the base of this dish. The recipe is flexible—use fresh chopped onion for the best flavor or onion powder when you’re in a hurry.
Garlic: Brings that distinctive punch that makes everything taste better. Again, fresh is wonderful but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Water or Beef Broth: Creates the cooking liquid for your pasta. Using beef broth instead of water adds an extra layer of flavor that really elevates the dish.
Brown Gravy Mix: This secret ingredient adds incredible depth of flavor and helps create that silky, savory sauce that coats everything beautifully.
Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup: The key to achieving that creamy, cheesy texture without having to make a separate cheese sauce from scratch.
Macaroni: The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the cheesy sauce. Feel free to substitute other short pasta shapes like shells or rotini.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce for maximum cheesy goodness. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to customize your Cheesy Hamburger Skillet? Here are some delicious options:

Taco Style: Add 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning, then top with crushed tortilla chips, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.
Veggie Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, corn, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
Italian Twist: Swap the cheddar cheese soup for tomato soup and add Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions together until the beef is completely browned. Break up any large chunks with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain off the excess grease—this prevents your final dish from being too oily.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Return the skillet to the heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for just 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can quickly become bitter.

Step 3: Create the Sauce Base

Add the brown gravy mix, cheddar cheese soup, and water or beef broth to the skillet. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and smooth. (This is also when you’d add the onion and garlic powder if using those instead of fresh.)

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked macaroni directly to the pan and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should absorb most of the liquid and become tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Serve immediately while it’s hot and at peak cheesiness!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Control the Consistency: If the mixture seems too dry during cooking, add a splash more water or broth. If it’s too soupy, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Cheese Matters: For the smoothest, creamiest result, grate your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Don’t Rush: Allow the pasta to cook at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. This gives the flavors time to meld and prevents the sauce from reducing too quickly.
Season Thoughtfully: Taste before adding salt, as both the gravy mix and cheese soup contain sodium. Adjust seasoning at the end if needed.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Hamburger Skillet is a meal in itself, but here are some serving suggestions to round out your dinner:

Simple Sides:

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

Veggie Options:

Steamed broccoli or green beans make perfect companions to this cheesy main course.

Bread Pairing:

A slice of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up any extra cheesy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits, so the dish may become thicker over time.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. The texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a bit of liquid as needed and stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Any small to medium pasta shape works well in this recipe. Try shells, rotini, or bow ties. Just be aware that different pasta shapes may require slight adjustments to cooking time, so keep an eye on your pasta’s doneness.
How can I make this recipe healthier?

To create a lighter version, use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.
Can I prepare this dish without the canned soup?

Yes, you can substitute the canned soup with 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of additional shredded cheese mixed with 1 tablespoon of flour. Whisk this mixture into the skillet after the pasta is cooked, and simmer until thickened.
My family doesn’t like onions. Can I leave them out?

Certainly! The onion powder alternative works perfectly in this recipe. You can also try grating the onion instead of chopping it, which allows the flavor to come through while making the pieces virtually undetectable in the final dish.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Skillet brings together simple ingredients to create the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying on the table with minimal fuss. The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, and creamy cheese sauce creates a meal that’s both nostalgic and delicious. Give it a try tonight—I promise your family will be asking for seconds!