This homemade Hamburger Helper is an easy, budget-friendly, and delicious alternative to the store-bought version. It’s a one-pot comfort food that’s inexpensive and takes only about 30 minutes to prepare.
Serves: 4-6 people | Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
-
Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
-
Add Seasonings & Liquids
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the beef broth, milk, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
-
Cook the Pasta
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Add the macaroni and stir. Cover and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
-
Add Cheese & Serve
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.
Tips
- Creamier Texture: For an extra creamy version, stir in ½ cup of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
- Protein Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
- Make it a Meal: Mix in cooked veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.