How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper Your Family Will Love

There’s something so comforting about a hearty, cheesy dinner that brings the family together, isn’t there? Today, I’m excited to share my take on a classic favorite: Homemade Hamburger Helper! This dish is not only a nostalgic nod to our childhood but also a fantastic way to whip up a quick family dinner that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and a cooking time of just about 30 minutes, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that you’ll want to keep in your weeknight dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich, creamy flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• One-pot meal means less cleanup!
• Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Homemade Hamburger Helper, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish:

1. In a large sauté pan with a lid, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
2. Lower the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic for the last 30 seconds to infuse that wonderful flavor.
3. Add the flour and stir for about 1 minute, then slowly stir in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pasta. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. If your noodles aren’t cooked through and you’re running out of liquid, add an extra 1/4 to 1/2 cup of broth as needed.
5. Once the pasta is al dente, add in the cream and cheese, stirring until all the cheese is melted. Add the ground beef back in and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to reheat. Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute or two so the sauce can thicken, then serve immediately!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Homemade Hamburger Helper turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based protein for a healthier twist.
• Add in some frozen peas or spinach for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
• For a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the pasta to prevent it from sticking.
• If you want a creamier texture, you can add more heavy cream or cheese to your liking.

How to Serve

This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner by serving it with:

• A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up that creamy sauce.
• Steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.

And don’t forget to pair it with a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing iced tea!

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up if needed. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container!

So, if you’re looking for quick family dinners that are both satisfying and easy to make, this Homemade Hamburger Helper is a must-try! It’s one of those 30-minute meals that will quickly become a family favorite. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake for a delightful dessert!