This Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick and tasty way to whip up dinner. It features ground beef, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce that’s just cheesy enough to make you smile!
Your family will love this one-pot meal, and honestly, it’s so easy that I sometimes feel like a cooking superstar! Just brown the beef, add pasta and goodies, and let it simmer—so simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I use ground beef for its flavor, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just note that ground turkey might not be as rich.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to swap it for any small pasta like shells or rotini. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta works too, but cooking times may vary.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor. If you want to try something different, feel free to use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend. Just remember, the meltability is key!
How Do You Make the Pasta Perfectly Cooked in One Pot?
The trick here is to keep it all in one pot for flavors to blend nicely. Here’s how:
- Start by browning the meat and cooking the onion and garlic. This builds great flavor.
- Add the broth and milk before the pasta to ensure the liquid properly heats up.
- Make sure to give it a stir after adding pasta; this helps prevent any sticking.
- Simmer covered to keep the moisture in, letting the pasta absorb the liquid and flavors.
Just keep an eye on it, and taste to check if the pasta is cooked to your liking! Enjoy!
Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or other small pasta
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 30-35 minutes total, you can have a warm, delicious meal ready for your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Season the Mixture:
Sprinkle in the paprika, chili powder (if you like a little kick), salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to make sure the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Add the Pasta and Liquids:
Now, pour in the beef broth and milk. Then add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir well to loosen any pasta that may stick together. Make sure everything is nicely mixed!
5. Bring it to a Boil:
Increase the heat until the mixture reaches a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
7. Final Touches:
Taste your Hamburger Helper and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want to make it extra pretty, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your comforting homemade Hamburger Helper warm and enjoy the smiles at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just cook it the same way as ground beef, but be mindful that it may cook faster, so keep an eye on it!
What Other Cheese Can I Use?
You can use any cheese that melts well, like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a cheese blend. Feel free to experiment with your favorites for a different flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, adding veggies is a fantastic idea! Peas, bell peppers, or spinach can be added either with the onions or right before the cheese is stirred in. Just ensure they are cooked until tender!
