Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

When you need a comforting, kid-approved meal that doesn’t come from a box, our Homemade Hamburger Helper has you covered. It’s a tantalizing blend of flavors with perfectly seasoned beef and creamy cheese, all tangled up with tender pasta. It’s a dinner hero that your family will love time and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Homemade Hamburger Helper lies in its simplicity, using easy-to-find ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Each component adds its unique touch, whether it’s the savory depth of beef broth or the creamy cheese that brings it all together.

• Lean Ground Beef: Provides a rich, hearty base for the dish. Swap with ground turkey if you prefer.
• Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with a subtle, aromatic kick.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring a creamy consistency.
• Low-Sodium Beef Broth: Packs in flavor without over-salting. Feel free to use chicken broth as an alternative.
• Tomato Sauce: Offers a slightly tangy balance to the creaminess.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a hint of herbaceous aroma.
• Seasoned Salt: Enhances overall taste while complementing the other flavors.
• Smoked Paprika: Gives a smoky undertone that elevates the dish.
• Small Pasta Shells: Perfect for catching all the sauce, though small elbow pasta works too.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness, making the sauce lusciously smooth.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The key to that irresistible cheesy finish.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! With a few tweaks, you can easily adapt this Homemade Hamburger Helper to suit your family’s likes and dietary needs.

• Gluten-Free Version: Simply substitute gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
• Spicy Touch: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or mix in some Rotel for a Tex-Mex vibe.
• Vegetarian Twist: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
• Extra Creamy: For added richness, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese.

How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large sauté pan, brown your ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once cooked through, remove the beef and reserve about two tablespoons of the fat in the pan to maintain that rich flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and toss in the diced onions, letting them soften for about five minutes. Add minced garlic to the pan for the last half-minute to release its wonderful aroma.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic, stirring for about a minute. Slowly incorporate the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form, and let the mixture come to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour in the tomato sauce, followed by Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and your choice of pasta. Bring to a simmer, cover, and allow it to cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until the pasta reaches tender perfection, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in the heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted into the sauce. Return the cooked beef to the pan, heating it through for an additional two to three minutes before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Hamburger Helper

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions works wonders for adding a burst of color and a hint of freshness. You can also top with extra cheese for those die-hard cheese lovers!

Side Dishes

This creamy dish pairs delightfully with a crisp side salad or some roasted vegetables. A slice of garlic bread can also play the perfect supporting role, ready to mop up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Homemade Hamburger Helper into a dinner delight by serving it in individual casserole dishes. This helps keep portions neat and adds a touch of elegance that family and guests alike will appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Homemade Hamburger Helper in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld together beautifully, making lunch leftovers an absolute treat!

Freezing

For freezing, place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It holds well in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream as needed to restore that delightful creaminess. Stir frequently to ensure even warmth throughout.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort and simplicity, give this Homemade Hamburger Helper a spot in your weekly rotation. It’s a cozy delight that’s sure to win over your family. Who can resist a dish that’s easy, cheesy, and utterly delicious? Enjoy!

Print