HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER

This homemade hamburger helper is an easy one-pot meal that is perfect for weeknight dinners. Comfort food at its finest!

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Ingredients For Homemade Hamburger Helper

These are the ingredients that make this homemade hamburger helper stand out!

• Ground Beef: The base of the dish, providing protein and flavor. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.

• Pasta: Typically elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape. It serves as the main carbohydrate and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

• Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the dish. Sautéing it enhances its flavor.

• Garlic: A key aromatic that elevates the overall taste with its robust flavor.

• Beef Broth: Provides moisture and richness, enhancing the beefy flavor of the dish.

• Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce, making it rich and comforting.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the dish, adding creaminess and a sharp flavor that ties everything together.

• Seasonings (such as paprika, salt, and pepper): Essential for enhancing the flavor profile and providing a balanced taste.

Why This Homemade Hamburger Helper is So Good

My homemade Hamburger Helper surpasses typical boxed versions in several ways, offering a delightful and nutritious dish.

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients like lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and quality pasta elevates the taste and makes it more nutritious.

  
  

• Customized Flavors: This recipe allows for flavor customization with various seasonings like smoked paprika and garlic powder, creating a unique taste profile.

  
  

• One-Pot Convenience: This version retains the one-pot convenience, making cleanup easy while delivering a rich, satisfying dish for busy weeknights.

  
  

Homemade Hamburger Helper FAQ

GLUTEN-FREE OPTION? Swap in a trusted 1:1 gluten-free pasta to make gluten-free!

For more pasta recipes, check out my:

Carmellas Baked Ziti

Pasta Al Limone

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Make sure to tag me @bakerbabe.ca on Instagram if you make this homemade hamburger helper. I love seeing my recipes come to life in YOUR kitchen! To pin this recipe and save it for later, you can use the button on the recipe card, the buttons above or below this post, or on any of the photos above.

HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• kosher salt and black pepper

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 pound short cut pasta

• 2 cups low sodium beef broth

• 1 1/2 cups milk, or 1 cup milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 1/2-2 cups shredded cheese- I like mozzarella and romano, but can also use cheddar

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• fresh parsley, for serving

TO MAKE

1. In a large pot set over medium high heat, add the olive oil, onion and butter. Cook until translucent.

2. Add ground beef and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder, cook until the beef is no longer pink.

2. Add the pasta and toss to coat, then pour in the broth and milk. Add the tomato paste and stir to combine. Season with salt.

3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium high heat. Simmer 5-8 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring often.

4. Stir in the cheese and cook another few minutes until very creamy.

5. Divide the pasta among bowls and top with fresh parsley. Enjoy!