Homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick and easy one-pot dish that’s both comforting and customizable. It’s a healthier version of the boxed classic, made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Broth, Milk, and Pasta:
- Stir in the beef broth, milk, ketchup (if using), Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a little more broth or milk to keep the mixture moist.
4. Add Cheese and Serve:
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or extra cheese if desired.
Tips:
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition, toss in some frozen peas, spinach, or chopped bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese and substitute the milk with a plant-based option like almond or oat milk.
Enjoy your homemade Hamburger Helper — a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal!