Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Looking for a quick, hearty, and delicious meal that the whole family will love? This Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s a comforting dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes. Forget the boxed version—this homemade recipe allows you to control the ingredients, making it healthier without compromising on taste.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

If you’re someone who needs a reliable dinner option after a long day, this recipe is for you. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and only uses one pan. Plus, it’s made with everyday pantry staples, so there’s no need for any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for comfort food for a quiet night in, this Homemade Hamburger Helper fits the bill.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Homemade Hamburger Helper

Here’s a breakdown of all the ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful, creamy dish:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth as an alternative)
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 8 oz small pasta shells (or small elbow pasta, roughly half a 1 lb box)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Hamburger Helper

1. Browning the Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey)

Begin by heating a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take around 6-7 minutes. Once the meat is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan. This will be used to flavor the onions.

2. Cooking the Onion and Garlic

Lower the heat to medium and toss the diced onion into the pan. Cook the onion until softened, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Cooking the onions and garlic in the beef drippings adds depth to the flavor.

3. Creating the Sauce and Cooking the Pasta

Once the onions are soft and translucent, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for about a minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Next, stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Finally, add the uncooked pasta directly into the sauce. Stir everything together, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

4. Adding Cream, Cheese, and Final Touches

Once the pasta is cooked to perfection, reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half if you prefer a lighter option). Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. At this point, return the browned ground beef to the pan, stirring until everything is heated through. Give it a final taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Hamburger Helper

• Keep stirring the pasta: Stir occasionally while the pasta is cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents. Shred the cheese yourself for a creamier sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: The pasta will continue to absorb liquid even after it’s removed from the heat, so cook it al dente for the perfect texture.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat, or skip the meat altogether and use additional veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the pasta with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. Cook the cauliflower until tender before adding the cream and cheese.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños along with the onions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Homemade Hamburger Helper

• Overcooking the Pasta: If your pasta cooks for too long, it will become mushy. Make sure to check it around the 12-minute mark and remove the pan from the heat once the pasta is tender.
• Skipping the Cheese: The cheese is what makes this dish rich and creamy, so don’t skip it or skimp on the quantity!
• Using too much liquid: It’s important to follow the liquid measurements accurately. Too much liquid can lead to a watery sauce, and too little will prevent the pasta from cooking properly.

How to Serve and Present Homemade Hamburger Helper

Serve this Homemade Hamburger Helper straight from the pan for a rustic, family-style dinner. For an extra pop of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Pair the dish with a crisp side salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness.

Storing Leftovers and Meal Prep

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or microwave.

FAQ About Homemade Hamburger Helper

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can! While small pasta shells or elbow pasta work best for this recipe, feel free to use any short pasta like penne or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Opt for ground turkey instead of beef to cut down on fat. You can also use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese or switch to a reduced-fat cheese variety.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.

conclusion

This Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, affordable, and kid-friendly. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to the store-bought boxed kind! If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to share it with your friends and family and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, family-friendly meals.

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