Do you remember those weeknight dinners from childhood that were both incredibly easy for Mom to make and totally satisfying for the whole family? For many, Hamburger Helper was a go-to, and this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe captures all that nostalgic flavor in a completely homemade skillet dish. Forget the boxed mixes – this is real comfort food, made simple.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet – Homemade Hamburger Helper – Nostalgic weeknight dinner
Growing up, meals that came together quickly were essential, and for many families, Hamburger Helper was a kitchen staple. Even as we get older and cooking from scratch becomes more of a focus, those comforting flavors still call to us. This Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni recipe recreates that classic taste, but with fresh ingredients and a simple, one-skillet method. It’s the perfect way to enjoy that familiar cheesy beef and pasta goodness without any processed ingredients.
This Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet is inspired by the ease and heartwarming recipes often associated with the Pioneer Woman style – think approachable, family-friendly meals that deliver big on flavor. Like many of her recipes, this one is designed to be straightforward, using everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator. And just like those classic skillet meals, everything cooks together in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. If you love easy skillet recipes, especially cast iron skillet recipes, this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni is about to become your new best friend. Don’t have a cast iron skillet? No problem! Any large skillet will work perfectly for this recipe.
One of the best things about this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni is that it’s a true one-pot meal. Yes, you read that right – everything, including the pasta, cooks right in the skillet. No need to boil pasta separately or create a mountain of dishes. This recipe is all about simplicity and efficiency, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is short but the craving for a hearty, homemade meal is strong.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet – Homemade Hamburger Helper – One pot skillet meal
If you’re on the lookout for more easy skillet recipes, especially ones that are family-approved and reminiscent of classic comfort food, this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni is a must-try. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be a challenge. Between work, family commitments, and everything else life throws our way, weeknight dinners need to be quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. This recipe ticks all those boxes, offering a comforting and satisfying meal without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Life can get hectic, and sometimes you just need a reliable, delicious meal that doesn’t demand a lot of effort. Whether you’re juggling work, errands, or family activities, this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni is the perfect solution for a comforting and easy dinner. It’s a fantastic way to bring everyone to the table with a meal that’s both nostalgic and genuinely satisfying.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet – Homemade Hamburger Helper – Easy weeknight dinner
Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet Recipe
This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting meal that your whole family will love. It’s a fantastic homemade alternative to boxed Hamburger Helper, and it’s just as easy to make!
Ingredients
- 16 oz ground beef, 85% lean 15% fat
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic (or 2 cloves of garlic, minced)
- ½ tablespoon no salt seasoning salt (or your preferred seasoning blend)
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (or cheddar, or your favorite cheese blend)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Season it with granulated garlic and seasoning salt. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned.
- Drain Excess Grease: Once the beef is fully cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This step helps to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Simmer with Broth and Pasta: Add the beef broth to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, add the uncooked elbow macaroni and stir everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Cook the Pasta: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the milk. Then, add the shredded Colby Jack cheese (or your cheese of choice) and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Serve the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy this delicious and easy Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Macaroni – a homemade skillet meal that’s perfect for any night of the week! Take a photo of your creation and share it!
More Skillet Meal Inspiration
Looking for more easy and delicious skillet recipes? Here are a few ideas to keep your weeknight dinners exciting and stress-free:
Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs – Another great skillet recipe
Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs Skillet Recipe
Pizza Skillet – Fun and easy skillet pizza recipe
Cookie Skillet Cake – Sweet skillet dessert idea
