How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper Delicious and Easy

There’s something so comforting about a hearty, cheesy dinner that brings the family together, isn’t there? If you’re like me and love easy pasta recipes that can be whipped up in no time, then you’re in for a treat! Today, I’m excited to share my take on Homemade Hamburger Helper. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you need a quick family dinner. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Rich, creamy flavor that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers!
• Versatile – you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious 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 get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Homemade Hamburger Helper:

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 lovely flavor.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about 1 minute. Gradually 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 cooked ground beef back into the pan 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 of my favorite tips to ensure your Homemade Hamburger Helper turns out perfectly:

• For a little extra flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the onions.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Feel free to swap out the cheese for your favorite variety, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for a different twist.
• Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the pasta to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

How to Serve

This Homemade Hamburger Helper is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some simple sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.
• Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up that creamy sauce.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe 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 on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!

So there you have it! A delightful, creamy, and satisfying Homemade Hamburger Helper that’s perfect for weeknight dinner ideas. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, don’t forget to check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake for a perfect finish to your meal. Happy cooking!