Homemade Hamburger Helper

This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a creamy, cheesy, one-pot pasta dinner that’s nostalgic and comforting with a bold, upgraded flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients and real cheddar cheese, it’s a quicker, tastier, and healthier version of the boxed classic you grew up with—perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying family cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot meal: Less mess, fewer dishes, all-in-one deliciousness.

Comfort food classic: Creamy cheese, tender pasta, and savory beef.

Customizable heat: From mild to spicy with a pinch of cayenne.

Made from scratch: No additives, just real ingredients and full flavor.

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

Key Ingredients

Ground Beef – Lean and flavorful, forming the base of the dish.

Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness and depth.

Elbow Macaroni – Cooks right in the sauce and absorbs all the flavor.

Milk & Beef Broth – Create a rich and creamy base for the pasta.

Tomato Sauce – Gives the dish its signature red tint and tangy flavor.

Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Spices – Garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and parsley bring warm, savory depth.

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Ingredients:

1 pound (500g) lean ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon garlic powder

pinch to ½ teaspoon cayenne powder

salt and pepper to taste

1½ cups (355ml) milk

1½ cups (355ml) beef broth

2 cups (260g) elbow macaroni, uncooked

1 (8oz) (227g) can tomato sauce

2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

Brown the ground beef, onion, paprika, parsley, garlic powder, cayenne powder, salt and pepper.

If using a ground beef with a higher fat content add in the seasonings after draining the grease.

Stir in the milk, broth, macaroni and tomato sauce.

Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to a simmer.

Cook for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.

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Recipe Notes

Use lean ground beef (90/10 or better) to keep the dish rich but not greasy. If using fattier beef, drain excess grease before adding seasonings.

Sauté the onions well: Cooking them until softened adds depth and natural sweetness that balances the spices and cheese.

Stir the pasta regularly during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the pan, especially near the bottom.

Adjust cayenne to taste: A pinch adds a gentle warmth, but if you’re cooking for kids or spice-sensitive eaters, you can skip it altogether.

Freshly shredded cheese melts best: Pre-shredded cheese may include anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Use block cheddar and grate it yourself for best texture.

Let it sit before serving: After mixing in the cheese, let the skillet rest (covered) for 2–3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta fully.

Make it extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream for added richness.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta besides elbow macaroni?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells if you prefer.

Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Is it necessary to use lean ground beef, or can I use regular ground beef?

You can use regular ground beef, but keep in mind that it may produce more grease when cooking.

If you do use regular ground beef, you may want to drain excess grease before adding the seasonings.

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. The flavors will still be delicious.

What can I use as a substitute for cayenne powder if I don’t like spicy food?

If you want to omit the spiciness, you can skip the cayenne powder altogether or use a pinch of paprika or a mild chili powder for a subtle flavor without the heat.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Hamburger Helper.

Just make sure it has cooled completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer.

When reheating, you may need to add a little extra liquid to maintain the desired consistency.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to make a leaner version of this dish. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

You can make a vegetarian or vegan version by using plant-based ground “beef” or crumbles and vegan cheese.

Also, use vegetable broth and non-dairy milk such as almond or soy milk to replace the beef broth and milk.

What can I serve as a side dish with Homemade Hamburger Helper?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread to complement the meal.

Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

Just store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.

Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the desired consistency.

What can I do if my macaroni is not cooked through after simmering for the recommended time?

If your macaroni is still too firm after simmering, you can add a bit more broth or water and continue to cook until it reaches the desired level of tenderness.

Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.