Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (2024)

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Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe is an awesome almost effortless, homemade hamburger helper.

It’s one kid approved recipe that we make all the time.

The taste of this quick and easy meal makes it seem like you slaved over this meal all day. And I myself, being that I am often dramatic would pretend to have spent hours on it.

If your family likes hamburger helper in the box then you will love this homemade version. You will never go back to that boxed stuff!

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (1)

And, I love to switch it up a bit. Take away half the garlic powder and sub in onion powder snd even add some salt and pepper to taste.

My family loved this recipe, I promise it is way better than the Hamburger Helper boxed version.

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Amazon has this cool little ground beef chopper that crumbled the meat perfectly for this meal.

I actually bought it a few months back and never used it, but it crumbled the meat just right.

I wish I would have found this handy gadget a lot sooner. Because it is something I now use every single time I am cooking ground meat.

How do you make homemade cheeseburger macaroni from scratch (see stovetop instructions in the notes)

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (2)

I can not tell you enough how amazing this Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper was.

The hot sauce added tremendously to the flavors without making it too spicy. My youngest doesn't really like spicy foods, but she loved this.

And although I like the flavor the chicken broth gives, you can also switch it out for beef broth, you can even switch the ground beef out for ground turkey or chicken. The recipe is the recipe of all ground beef recipes, trust me.

What Do You Eat With Instant POt CHeeseburger Macaroni?

To clarify, Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is the perfect stand-alone recipe. But, in short, you can pair it with garlic bread if you want to have a little something more with it.

This was one of my favorite childhood comfort foods and has become a fast adult favorite. We would eat the Cheeseburger Mac style that had a lot of flavoring to it. And then we would sprinkle with grated cheese.

Hamburger Helper was a staple in our home, and I get it. Being a busy parent you don't always have time to cook. And Instant Pot Hamburger helper is fast to make and easy, so I totally get it now being a mom and realizing how hard parenting can be.

So, creating a homemade version just fit my lifestyle when I was introduced to the Instant Pot. It tastes very similar to the box, only it is better because I know exactly what goes into the recipe!

Sometimes boxed mixes give you that over-processed flavors, and with this, you get fresh ingredient tastes. And I can assure you, that you will never want to touch that boxed stuff again.

Firstly, the Instant Pot does all the work. So, no more standing over the stove watching and waiting for it to bring to a boil like directed on the back of the box.

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (3)

We really don't know how we got through life before the Instant Pot. It has been a lifesaver on many occasions, no more standing over a large skillet over medium high heat for 30 minutes or more, having to reduce heat for it to simmer. Just a few steps and this dish is ready to go.

I rarely have time to cook, but with this thing, I am cooking daily and sometimes more than 1 meal in a single day.

If you want more kid-approved recipes, check out 21 Kid Approved Instant Pot Recipes.

I know for me my kids always were a little on the pickey side, so having a little help with approved recipes your kids won't turn their noses up to, is a must try.

Cheeseburger Macaroni

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (4)

You will look and be tempted to double the recipe. DON'T! This recipe makes a ton, I have also seen comments on the amount of cheddar cheese, it is not so much that it is overbearing.

Meanwhile, you are welcome to cut down on the cheese if you prefer. You can add about half and do a quick taste test and add more if you think your family can handle more, in the home we love cheese. I find it is the perfect amount of cheese, but you can always do less and add more after if you feel it isn't cheesy enough.

How do you make Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni?

So, if you know of someone who loves hamburger helper, but hates to bring to a boil on water for the pasta, then this homemade version is just for them. The Instant Pot does the work for you pretty much, with minimal steps on your end.

To me it is just as easy, if not easier than the boxed Hamburger helper out on the market, and it tastes a lot better.

Some of my favorites instant pot recipes are the ground beef recipes because that is what our family likes the most.

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (5)

Cheeseburger Mac

Need more great recipes? Check out these,Instant Pot Crack Chicken Broccoli Carrots,Copycat Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Nuggets,Copycat TGI Fridays Mashed Potatoes in The Instant Pot.

More GreatRecipes For Your Instant Pot.

  • Low Carb Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet
  • 15 Easy Keto Ground Beef Recipes|Keto Hamburger Recipe
  • Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese Recipe with Ranch Parmesan and Mozzarella
  • Instant Pot Elbow Macaroni Recipes
  • 14 Best Instant Pot Ground Beef Recipes

Helpful tools for this recipe:

Instant Pot

Betty Crocker Hamburger Helper Meat Chopper

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (6)

Yield: 12

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni is a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni, dry
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Franks Red Hot
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
  • 28 oz can diced tomato
  • 2 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 16 oz shredded sharp cheddar

Instructions

  1. Press saute and add ground beef, parsley, oregano, and garlic.
  2. Cook until no longer pink and also crumbling.
  3. Add all other ingredients except cheese, give it a good stir.
  4. Put on, lock lid and close valve.
  5. Press manual, cook 4 minutes on high and QR
  6. Stir in the cheese allow to melt and serve.

Notes

For stovetop, brown ground beef, parsley, oregano, and garlic, set aside and cook noodles al dente.

Combine meat, noodles and remaining ingredients cooking on low until cheese is melted nad combined.

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Nutrition Information

Yield

12

Serving Size

1

Amount Per ServingCalories 320Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 72mgSodium 492mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 23g

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Instant Pot Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe ⋆ by Pink (2024)

FAQs

What happens if you don't use milk in Hamburger Helper? ›

Water: If you're looking for a simple substitute, water can be used in place of milk. While it won't provide the same creaminess, it will still work well in the recipe [2]. Shredded Cheese: Adding shredded cheese to your Hamburger Helper can help thicken the sauce and add extra flavor.

Can I use almond milk in my Hamburger Helper? ›

Depending on the type of Hamburger Helper, you can use any other liquid, such as almond milk, coconut milk, chicken stock or beef stock.

Can you make Hamburger Helper without any meat? ›

Yes! Although traditionally Hamburger Helper has called for meat additions, these ingredients can be easily substituted by your choice of protein. Instead of meat, you can add vegetables or a meat alternative of your choice to Hamburger Helper meals to make them plant-based.

How to cook ground beef for Hamburger Helper? ›

You start by browning a pound of ground beef in a large skillet or large pot over medium-high heat. Just break up the meat so it cooks evenly and drain any extra fat that cooks off. Next, sprinkle the cornstarch and spices over the browned meat and stir them in before adding the hot water or broth, milk, and pasta.

Can sour cream be a substitute for milk? ›

Sour cream is another great last minute milk replacement. It'll add moisture and is neutral in flavor. Stick to a one-to-one replacement.

Can I use buttermilk instead of milk in mac n cheese? ›

Buttermilk Mac and Cheese

Give it a super-simple upgrade with a huge flavor boost by using buttermilk instead of regular milk. And if you insist on homemade, go ahead and make the same swap. Just be sure to stick with a mild cheese, so as not to overpower the sweet tang of the buttermilk.

What can I replace for milk in Hamburger Helper? ›

Milk adds a creamy texure and lends its flavor to the sauce in Hamburger Helper. You may not enjoy the results made with only water. Betty's Emrgency Substitutions page suggests a substitution for a cup of milk: 1/2 cup evaporated milk plus 1/2 cup water; or nonfat dry milk prepared as directed on package.

Can you use sour cream instead of milk in mac n cheese? ›

I think sour cream is a great substitute! However, it may change the flavor just slightly. For sour cream, mix it in just like I outlined in the cream cheese example, but with far less or no extra liquid. Sour cream is slightly sour (duh), so this may impact the final flavor a bit.

Can I use evaporated milk instead of milk? ›

Use evaporated milk instead of fresh milk in recipes. Add an equal amount of water. For example, if a recipe lists 1 cup (250 mL) milk, add ½ cup water to ½ cup evaporated milk. Try leftover canned milk in tea, coffee, omelets, soups, hot oatmeal or even spaghetti sauce.

Can you use tuna in Hamburger Helper? ›

Add milk, hot water and sauce mix (from Hamburger Helper™ box); stir to combine. Stir in uncooked pasta (from Hamburger Helper™ box) and tuna. Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can you use evaporated milk in Hamburger Helper? ›

The BEST homemade hamburger helper uses cheddar for the flavor and Gouda for its luxuriously creaminess. Don't use milk. Milk can curdle when simmered and doesn't promote silky sauces. Evaporated milk or heavy cream is always your best bet.

Can I use broth instead of water in Hamburger Helper? ›

Easy Hamburger Helper ingredients

Water: or you can use beef broth, chicken broth, or vegetable broth to add extra flavor. Milk: adds to the creaminess along with the cheddar cheese. You could sub sour cream if you were feeling like experimenting in the kitchen.

How to spice up Hamburger Helper cheeseburger macaroni? ›

Almost any of the “helpers” benefit from the addition of sautéed diced onion and minced or grated garlic. This adds another layer of flavor. Or try adding diced red sweet peppers. If it is a cheesy mix add a half cup of freshly grated parmesan and a handful of minced fresh flat leaf parsley.

How do you cook Hamburger Helper cheeseburger macaroni? ›

Instructions:
  1. Brown hamburger meat in 12-inch skillet or 5-quart Dutch oven; drain.
  2. Stir in hot water, milk, both packets Sauce Mix and uncooked Pasta.
  3. Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce heat; cover and simmer about 13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Do you season ground beef for Hamburger Helper? ›

The best seasonings to use for Hamburger Helper are salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Will Hamburger Helper taste the same without milk? ›

Milk adds a creamy texure and lends its flavor to the sauce in Hamburger Helper. You may not enjoy the results made with only water.

What can be substituted for milk in a recipe? ›

Use ½ cup half and half and ½ cup water as a substitute for 1 cup milk. Oat milk or almond milk: These non-dairy milk alternatives work similarly to dairy milk in baking and recipes. Water: If the recipe calls for a small amount of milk like ¼ cup or less, water could work.

How much sour cream to substitute for milk? ›

Sour cream or full fat yogurt can be substituted 1:1 for whole milk. Use this substitute in baking quick breads or for adding creaminess to pan sauces. Sour cream works especially well in recipes calling for buttermilk, too and vanilla-flavored yogurt can be used for sweet quick breads and cakes.

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