Craving a classic comfort food with a homemade twist? This Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe delivers a rich, cheesy, and savory dish that’s both quick and easy to make. Forget the boxed version—this recipe brings fresh ingredients and hearty flavors to the table, offering a satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with lean ground beef, elbow macaroni, and freshly grated cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the beef and onions:
In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and continue to sauté until the onions are softened, about 3-4 minutes. - Add seasonings and tomato paste:
Mix in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder. Cook for another minute, ensuring the meat and onions are coated in the seasoning and the tomato paste is well distributed. - Incorporate the broth and pasta:
Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Combine all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is fully immersed in the liquid. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed. - Add the cheese:
Once the pasta is tender, remove the lid and stir in the freshly grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy. - Serve:
Serve your homemade Hamburger Helper hot, garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. It pairs perfectly with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion:
This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a fantastic go-to for busy nights when you need a filling and flavorful meal that comes together quickly. By using simple, fresh ingredients like ground beef, cheddar cheese, and elbow macaroni, you can create a wholesome dish that’s far more satisfying than the store-bought version. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of Hamburger Helper, but better—made right in your kitchen!