Why You’ll Love Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
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Made with real, wholesome ingredients
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Ready in just 30 minutes
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One-pot means less clean-up
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Customizable with different proteins or pasta types
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Rich, cheesy, and kid-friendly
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No artificial flavors or preservatives
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Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
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Budget-friendly and hearty
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Creamy texture with a hint of spice
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Comfort food the whole family will enjoy
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef
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Elbow macaroni
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Onion
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Garlic
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Tomato paste
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Beef broth
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Milk
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Paprika
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Salt
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Pepper
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Olive oil
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Mix in tomato paste, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Pour in beef broth and milk, then stir in uncooked elbow macaroni.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat instead of ground beef.
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Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for different flavors.
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Add veggies: Mix in bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
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Pasta switch: Use rotini, shells, or gluten-free pasta as desired.
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Creamier version: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese.
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Low-sodium: Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste.
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Dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.
Storage/Reheating
Let the Hamburger Helper cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep the pasta from overcooking?
Stir occasionally and check for doneness around the 12-minute mark to avoid mushy pasta.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well and can be reheated easily for quick meals throughout the week.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, let it cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Just adjust cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar provides a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra vegetables and use vegetable broth.
How can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne.
What if I don’t have tomato paste?
You can substitute with tomato sauce or ketchup in a pinch, but reduce the broth slightly.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and gives a better texture.
Is this healthier than boxed Hamburger Helper?
Yes, it uses whole ingredients, no preservatives, and you can control the fat and salt levels.
Conclusion
This easy homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick, comforting, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal prep, a single pot, and customizable ingredients, it’s a weeknight lifesaver that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Skip the box and make this delicious classic from scratch—you’ll never look back.
Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper
This Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper is a creamy, cheesy, one-pot dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Made with simple pantry ingredients, ground beef, and elbow macaroni, it’s the perfect family-friendly comfort food. Skip the box and make this quick and satisfying weeknight meal from scratch!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1½ cups milk
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, macaroni, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- For a creamier texture, stir in ¼ cup of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
