Cheesy Pizza Hamburger Helper (Print-Friendly Version)

Savory ground beef, pepperoni, and cheese combined in a satisfying pizza-inspired skillet meal.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 450 g ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
08 - 60 g pepperoni, chopped
09 - 1 tablespoon minced garlic
10 - 480 ml beef broth
11 - 480 ml marinara sauce
12 - 120 ml milk
13 - 250 g penne pasta
14 - 200 g shredded mozzarella cheese
15 - Dried parsley, for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until beef is mostly browned and onions are translucent.
02 - Add salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
03 - Add chopped pepperoni to the center of the skillet. Allow it to cook for 2 minutes, then stir to combine with the beef mixture.
04 - Carefully drain excess grease from the cooked beef and pepperoni mixture and return to heat.
05 - Add minced garlic, beef broth, marinara sauce, and milk. Stir to combine.
06 - Stir in penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
07 - Remove lid. Stir in 100 g mozzarella cheese until melted and well mixed. Spread remaining 100 g cheese over the top. Let stand, covered, on low heat until cheese melts, or briefly place the skillet under a broiler for a golden top.
08 - Sprinkle dried parsley over the surface before serving.

# Extra Information:

01 - For best texture, add cheese in stages and avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent mushiness.