Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup, more convenience.
- Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that kids and adults will love.
- Customizable: Easily switch up the protein, pasta, or seasonings.
- Cheesy & Flavorful: A rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 oz small pasta shells or elbow pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Brown the ground beef in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Remove and set aside, keeping 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
- Cook the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic for the last 30 seconds.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Add tomato sauce, seasonings, and pasta. Simmer covered for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese until melted. Return the beef to the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes more.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 738 kcal per serving
Variations
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a different take.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Try a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a celiac-friendly meal.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess. You can also microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
FAQs
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente and avoid overcooking when reheating.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It reheats well, making it a great meal prep option.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Small pasta like elbow macaroni or shells works best as they absorb the sauce well.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Freshly shredded cheese melts better.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, lean turkey, and reduce the cheese and cream for a lighter version.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. Adding a bit of cornstarch can help thicken it.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
Crushed tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with water can work as substitutes.
How do I add more flavor?
Try adding Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, or a splash of soy sauce for depth.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except cheese and cream. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, stir in cheese and cream before serving.
What can I serve with this?
Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner. With simple ingredients and a one-pot cooking method, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights. Plus, with so many variations, you can easily customize it to fit your family’s tastes. Try it tonight and enjoy a homemade classic!
Homemade Hamburger Helper
A quick, cheesy one-pot meal featuring tender pasta and savory ground beef in a rich tomato and cheese sauce, ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this homemade version is tastier and healthier than the boxed classic!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 oz small pasta shells or elbow pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Meat – In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside, keeping 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Create the Base – Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta – Add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pasta. Stir well, cover, and let simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Make It Creamy – Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked beef to the pan, mix well, and let cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy – Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter option, use ground turkey and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little spice.
- Try different cheeses like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist!
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
