Homemade Hamburger Helper

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 onion finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 9 ounces pasta
• 3 cups beef broth low sodium
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 6 ounces cheddar cheese grated

fresh parsley for topping optional

1. Heat a large pot over medium. Add oil, butter, onion and garlic. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant. Add ground beef, break up into pieces and cook until brown, about 6 minutes.
2. Add salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano and cayenne pepper. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pasta and pour in broth. Stir to combine, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low and simmer, covered, for about 6-8 minutes, or until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, grate the cheddar cheese and chop the parsley if using.
5. Pour in half-and-half and add cheddar. Stir until the cheese is melted and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust salt. Finish off with parsley. Serve!