This recipe delivers all the nostalgia of classic Hamburger Helper but without any of the preservatives or powdered sauces. It’s a one-skillet meal, so cleanup is a breeze. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and uses pantry staples, making it an easy solution when you need a quick and hearty dinner. Customize it with your favorite spices or veggies for a personal touch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef elbow macaroni or other short pasta beef broth milk cheddar cheese, shredded onion, finely chopped garlic, minced tomato paste paprika salt black pepper olive oil or butter (for cooking) optional: heavy cream for extra creaminess optional: parsley or green onions for garnish
Directions
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add paprika, salt, pepper, uncooked pasta, beef broth, and milk. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onions if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Total time: Approximately 25 minutes
Variations
Cheeseburger Style: Add chopped pickles and a squirt of ketchup and mustard at the end for that classic cheeseburger flavor.
Spicy Version: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning and a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Hidden Veggies: Stir in finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Creamier Sauce: Swap some of the milk for heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream at the end.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let the dish cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, both ground turkey and chicken work well as lean alternatives to beef.
Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No, the pasta cooks right in the same pan with the beef and liquid, which adds flavor and makes cleanup easier.
What type of cheese is best?
Sharp cheddar melts well and gives the dish a bold flavor, but you can also use a blend like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use lean ground meat, add vegetables, and reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat version.
Can I use water instead of beef broth?
You can, but beef broth adds more depth and savory flavor to the dish.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor—perfect for picky eaters.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or pot and adjust the cooking time slightly, especially for the pasta.
Why is my pasta not cooking all the way?
Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid and keep the skillet covered while simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
What can I serve with Hamburger Helper?
A side salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread all pair well with this dish.
Conclusion
Homemade Hamburger Helper is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and flavor. It’s a simple, satisfying meal made from scratch in one pan—ideal for busy weeknights or when you need something cozy and quick. Once you try this homemade version, you may never go back to the box again.
Homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick, one-pot meal made with ground beef, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes and made with real ingredients—no boxed mix required.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
2 cups elbow macaroni or other short pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add paprika, salt, pepper, uncooked pasta, beef broth, and milk. Stir well to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness if desired.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onions.
Notes
Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.Try taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with chilies for a Mexican-inspired twist.Mix in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added veggies.Add pickles, mustard, and ketchup at the end for a cheeseburger-style version.
