I love how this one-pan, hearty dish combines the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the comforting ease of a homemade Hamburger Helper.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I fell in love with this recipe because it’s quick—ready in about 30 minutes—and uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand. The combination of seasoned beef, peppers, onions, pasta, and melted cheese hits all the right notes for a satisfying weeknight meal. Plus, it scales easily and the whole family always asks for seconds!
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb ground beef
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1 onion, chopped
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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1 tsp steak seasoning
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp dried oregano
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2 tbsp A1 Steak Sauce
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1½ cups beef broth
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1½ cups milk
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1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
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2½ cups uncooked spiral pasta
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
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I start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once it’s mostly cooked, I add the chopped onion and green pepper, then drain excess grease.
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I stir in all the seasonings—steak seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano—followed by the beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, A1 sauce, and uncooked pasta.
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After I bring it to a simmer, I cover the skillet, reduce the heat, and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes until the pasta is tender.
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Once the pasta is done, I stir in 1 cup of mozzarella, top with the remaining cup, cover, and let it melt.
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I like to garnish with dried parsley or fresh herbs before serving—even roasted broccoli or a green salad makes a great side.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Approximately 6–8 servings
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Prep Time: ~10 minutes
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Cook Time: ~20 minutes
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Total Time: ~30 minutes
Variations
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Mushroom lover’s twist: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the peppers and onions.
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Low-carb: Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets; you’ll need a bit less liquid.
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Extra cheesiness: Mix in cheddar or provolone with the mozzarella.
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Spicy kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne or a dash of hot sauce with the seasonings.
Storage/Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive creaminess.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best?
I prefer spiral pasta because it holds the sauce well, but elbows, shells, or penne work just as nicely.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even finely sliced sirloin would be great substitutes.
Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Yes—I’ve swapped regular pasta with a gluten-free variety, and it turns out fantastic.
Can I add veggies?
For sure! I’ve mixed in mushrooms, spinach, or frozen peas with great results.
How do I prevent it from becoming too watery?
I let it simmer uncovered towards the end so the sauce thickens. You can also reduce liquid by ¼ cup or add a slurry of cornflour.
Conclusion
I always end up making this Cheese Steak Hamburger Helper on busy nights because it’s a winner in taste, ease, and comfort. With just one skillet, pantry-friendly ingredients, and under 30 minutes, it’s become one of my go-to family dinners. I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Cheese Steak Hamburger Helper
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A one-pan, hearty dinner combining the bold flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the creamy comfort of homemade Hamburger Helper. It’s quick, satisfying, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp steak seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 2 TBSP A1 Steak Sauce
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2½ cups uncooked spiral pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and green pepper; cook until softened, then drain excess grease.
- Stir in steak seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano.
- Add beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, A1 Steak Sauce, and uncooked pasta. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat. Cook for 10–15 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining cup, cover, and let it melt.
- Optional: Garnish with dried parsley or fresh herbs. Serve with a side of roasted broccoli or green salad.
Notes
- Add mushrooms for a savory twist.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Stir in cheddar or provolone for extra cheesiness.
- Add cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Simmer uncovered at the end if the sauce is too watery.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg