easy homemade hamburger helper recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
easy homemade hamburger helper recipe
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The Best easy homemade hamburger helper recipe

I’m so excited to share this easy homemade hamburger helper recipe with you all. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for simple and delicious meals that my family will love.

This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. From weeknight dinners to family gatherings, this easy homemade hamburger helper is a crowd-pleaser.

It’s also a great way to get in some extra veggies and protein without sacrificing flavor. I love that it’s made with ground beef, which is a great source of iron and can be swapped out for turkey or chicken if you prefer.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.

I’ve made it so many times that my kids now request it by name – they love helping me mix the noodles, ground beef, and sauce together before tossing in some steamed broccoli or carrots for added nutrition. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify their mealtime routine while still serving up something tasty and satisfying.

Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper

Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper

4.9 from 1804 votes

A quick and comforting one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a creamy tomato sauce. This homemade version is much tastier and healthier than the boxed mix, ready in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (85/15)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Drain any excess fat if needed.
4Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
5Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
6Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, beef broth, tomato sauce, milk, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
7Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
8Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9Cover and let it sit for 2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
10Stir gently to combine before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use ground turkey and low-fat milk. You can also add frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.

Watch Video Of How Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Works

This easy homemade hamburger helper recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with family and friends. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months – just reheat it as needed.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – serve it over rice, with some crusty bread on the side, or even as a fun meal prep option.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Helper

Q: What is hamburger helper?

Hamburger helper is a boxed pasta dish made by General Mills that typically consists of ground beef, noodles, and a packet of seasoning. However, this easy homemade version swaps out the boxed mix for fresh ingredients and lets you customize the recipe to your liking.

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

Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat’s thickness.

Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the traditional pasta noodles for gluten-free alternatives like rice-based noodles or zucchini noodles.

Q: Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli or carrots?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite veggies – bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even diced tomatoes all work well in this recipe.

Q: How long does this recipe take to make?

This easy homemade hamburger helper comes together in about 20-25 minutes – perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re short on time.

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