Here’s a quick and easy recipe for Homemade Hamburger Helper—a healthier, homemade version of the classic comfort food, packed with flavor and simple ingredients!
Ingredients
(Serves 4-6)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or any plant-based milk)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta you prefer)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Stir in the beef broth, milk, paprika, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the Pasta:
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta) and make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Finish the Dish:
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve the homemade hamburger helper warm, topped with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Add Veggies: Stir in some peas, corn, or chopped bell peppers to add color and nutrition.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk to make this recipe dairy-free.
This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a simple, delicious, and customizable dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and much tastier than the boxed version!