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Homemade Three Cheese Hamburger Helper photo

Three Cheese Hamburger Helper

This Three Cheese Hamburger Helper is a creamy, cheesy one-pot meal that’s quick and comforting—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef extra lean
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce such as Sriracha, optional
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces pasta such as elbow or shells, 2 cups
  • 3 cups beef broth low sodium
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1 tablespoon parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Three Cheese Hamburger Helper

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the extra lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic, onion powder, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce (if using). Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
  • Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that you can adjust these later, so start with a little and add more as needed.
  • Pour in the pasta and beef broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the broth.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Then, gradually add the three cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack—stirring until everything is melted and creamy.
  • Serve the Three Cheese Hamburger Helper warm, garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight straight from the pot or transfer it to individual bowls for a cozy family dinner.

Notes

  • Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for variations.
  • If the pasta isn’t fully cooked, simmer a few more minutes adding extra broth as needed.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Keyword Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy, One-Pot, Quick