Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Introduction

This homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting and easy one-pot meal that brings together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and rich cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite made from scratch.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the ground beef and chopped onions to a soup pot and cook over medium-high heat until the beef is browned, about 7 to 10 minutes. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. If there is excess fat, spoon most of it out.
2. Step 2: Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder until well combined with the beef.
3. Step 3: Pour in the beef broth and increase the heat to high. When it starts boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to a rapid simmer (medium heat works well). Cook uncovered, stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 13 to 15 minutes.
5. Step 5: While the pasta cooks, grate the cheddar cheese to save preparation time.
6. Step 6: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving to enhance the flavors, or serve immediately if you prefer.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sauté the onions in a bit of olive oil before adding the ground beef.
• Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack or a sharp gouda for a different twist.
• Add a handful of frozen peas or corn in step 4 for added color and veggies.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 103 reviews

Homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting and easy one-pot meal featuring browned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of tomato paste and spices, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and delicious.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef and Onions: In a soup pot over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spoon until the beef is fully browned. If excess fat accumulates, carefully spoon most of it out for a leaner dish.
2. Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed and the tomato paste coats the meat well.
3. Add Broth and Boil: Pour in the beef broth and increase the heat to high. Once the mixture reaches a boil, carefully add the uncooked elbow macaroni.
4. Simmer and Cook Pasta: Reduce the heat to medium to maintain a rapid simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring every couple of minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, approximately 13-15 minutes.
5. Grate Cheese: While the pasta cooks, grate the cheddar cheese to save prep time after cooking.
6. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Notes

• Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) for a healthier option.
• Feel free to substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
• For added vegetables, consider stirring in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream along with the cheese.
• Stir frequently when simmering to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom.

Keywords: Homemade Hamburger Helper, Beef Pasta, One Pot Meal, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food, Ground Beef Recipe