Cheese Steak Homemade Hamburger Helper

This cheesy cheese steak homemade hamburger helper is a foolproof solution for busy weeknights and always wins approval from kids and adults alike. It brings the classic flavors of cheese steak straight to your stovetop with super simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients.

Every time I make this it disappears fast and someone always asks for seconds. It reminds me of the boxed dinners I loved growing up but with so much more flavor.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose a lean variety for less grease and better browning
• Chopped onion: Fresh onions boost the savory flavor and bring out sweetness as they cook
• Chopped green bell pepper: Use a firm pepper with shiny skin for the best texture
• Steak seasoning: Brings that classic grilled flavor try to use a blend with cracked black pepper
• Garlic powder: Perfect for delivering richness without chopping fresh garlic
• Onion powder: Doubles up on onion flavor for extra depth
• Paprika: Look for a bright red powder with a smoky aroma for best flavor
• Oregano: Always pick dried oregano that smells fragrant and not musty
• A1 Steak Sauce: Delivers tang and umami for that classic cheese steak character
• Beef broth: Adds robust flavor to cook pasta and meat together
• Milk: Make sure it is whole or two percent for creamier sauce
• Tomato sauce: Choose a smooth variety for best melting with the cheese
• Spiral pasta: Holds onto the sauce and cheese so every bite is satisfying
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Buy blocks and shred for better melting and texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Start by placing the ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat. Cook while breaking up with a spoon until just browned and no longer pink. This forms the savory base and allows you to control the fat.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté with the beef for about five minutes until the onions turn translucent and the peppers start to soften. This starts to layer in the cheese steak flavors.

Season Everything:

Sprinkle in the steak seasoning garlic powder onion powder paprika and oregano. Stir to coat the beef and veggies well letting the spices toast for a minute for extra flavor.

Deglaze and Simmer:

Add the beef broth A1 Steak Sauce tomato sauce and milk directly to the pan. Scrape the bottom well to loosen any browned bits from the skillet. Stir in the uncooked spiral pasta fully submerging it in the liquid.

Cook Covered:

Bring everything to a simmer then immediately cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish cook covered for ten to fifteen minutes making sure to stir once or twice so the pasta cooks evenly and nothing sticks.

Add the Cheese:

Remove the lid and sprinkle over one cup of shredded mozzarella. Stir to melt it throughout then scatter the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Place the lid back on just until the cheese is melted through and bubbly.

Serve:

Spoon generous helpings into bowls and enjoy while still cheesy and hot

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My favorite part is piling on the steaming mozzarella and watching it melt right into the noodles. I remember making this for the first time after a long school day and one bite had everyone quiet and happy at the table.

Storage Tips

Let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well for up to three days in the fridge and can be reheated in the microwave or gently on the stovetop. If it thickens in the fridge just add a splash of milk while reheating to bring back the creamy sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter protein. Feel free to use any short pasta shape like penne shells or even elbow macaroni. Cheddar blends well with mozzarella if you want a sharper taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish makes an entire meal on its own but I love serving it with a crisp salad or simple steamed broccoli for extra color and freshness. Warm garlic bread rounds out the plate perfectly especially for sopping up any extra cheesy sauce.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Hamburger helper became a household staple back in the 1970s as an affordable way for families to stretch a pound of meat. This homemade twist gives you all that creamy nostalgia with the comfort of cheese steak flavors and none of the boxed ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and will lighten the dish while maintaining delicious flavor.

→ What's the best pasta shape to use?

Spiral pasta, such as rotini or fusilli, holds sauces well, but elbow macaroni or penne can also be used.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the other seasonings.

→ Can this be made ahead and reheated?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

→ Are there other cheese options besides mozzarella?

Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses will also melt nicely and add different flavor notes.