Homemade Hamburger Helper is a nostalgic dish that many grew up loving. It’s a comforting concoction combining ground beef, pasta, and creamy cheese sauce, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and quick preparation, transforming the traditional boxed version into a wholesome, homemade delight that can be adapted to your family’s tastes.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Homemade Hamburger Helper hits all the right notes—it’s quick, budget-friendly, and best of all, kid-approved! Whether you’re racing against the clock after a long day at work or looking for a hearty meal to serve during a cozy family gathering, this dish is perfect. It’s not just about the convenience; it’s also about creating a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table.
“I made this after a long day, and my kids devoured it! Easy to prepare and so much better than the boxed version.” — Happy Home Cook
Preparing Homemade Hamburger Helper
Making this delightful dish involves several straightforward steps. Grab your ingredients and let the cooking magic begin! Here’s a quick overview of how you’ll bring this meal to life:
- Brown the ground beef.
- Sauté your onions and garlic.
- Combine spices and pasta with broth and milk.
- Simmer until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in gooey cheese for that creamy touch.
What you’ll need
To whip up this meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Feel free to experiment with your choice of cheese; cheddar provides a classic touch, while mozzarella can offer a milder flavor.
Directions to follow
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat after.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Mix in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the beef is well-seasoned.
- Pour in the elbow macaroni, beef broth, and milk. Bring everything to a boil while stirring.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the pasta is nice and tender.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Continue to mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish can be served in many creative ways. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, or serve with a simple green salad for a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the meal perfectly.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers properly is important for both taste and safety. Allow your Hamburger Helper to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure it’s heated through completely; this can be done on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
- Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating different spices like Italian seasoning or chili powder.
- Experiment with different types of pasta or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Creative twists
Feel free to play around with the recipe. Try adding spicy jalapeños for a kick, or substitute ground turkey or chicken for a healthier twist. You can even make it vegetarian by using plant-based protein and vegetable broth! The options are endless for customizing this comforting meal.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare Homemade Hamburger Helper?
Prep time takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes around 20 minutes, making for a quick meal ready in about half an hour!
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may vary.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Let the dish cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Always ensure it is heated through before serving again.
Now, gathering your family around the dinner table has never been easier or more enjoyable with this delicious and comforting Homemade Hamburger Helper!
PrintHomemade Hamburger Helper
A comforting and simple dish combining ground beef, pasta, and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Mix in paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring the beef is well-seasoned.
- Pour in elbow macaroni, beef broth, and milk. Bring to a boil while stirring.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and pasta shapes. Garnish with parsley, and serve with garlic bread or salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
