This Homemade Hamburger Helper is sure to become a family favorite! It’s cheesy, flavorful, and full of pasta so you can't go wrong. Plus, it's a one-pot meal so clean-up is a breeze!
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Homemade hamburger helper
This homemade version of classic hamburger helper tastes better than the boxed stuff. It's a true one-pot meal and it can be on the table in about 30 minutes which means that it's great for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast.
Most of these ingredients are pantry friendly so you don't have to worry about making a special trip to the grocery store.
Ingredients and substitutes
Please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for the exact measurements.
- Lean ground beef - you can substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Elbow macaroni noodles for the classic recipe, though you can also also use rigatoni, rotini or penne pasta if you'd prefer. Egg noodles, bowtie pasta, or even cavatappi pasta work great for this recipe.
- Grated cheddar cheese is the classic flavor. Use Monterey jack or mozzarella if you'd prefer.
- Don't of chicken broth on hand? Avoid a trip to the grocery store and use beef broth instead.
Homemade hamburger helper instructions
This is an overview of the instructions for this family friend skillet meal! For complete directions, scroll down to the bottom.
- Brown ground beef with diced onions in a large skillet
- Add the garlic. Cook for an additional minute. Then add the seasonings.
- Add the milk, chicken stock and pasta, increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the cheese and serve!
Essential tools for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s)
Yes, you can make this easy recipe ahead and reheat it when you are ready to serve it.
Whole wheat pasta will work great in this recipe. Just make sure that you adjust the cooking time to the recommended times for the pasta that you are using.
Deb's top tips
When I am making a creamy skillet meal like this beef pasta I've found that using freshly shredded cheese works best, it will give you the best melt for your cheese sauce.
- If you are using a different type of pasta to make this homemade version of hamburger helper, make sure that you check the cooking times on the back of the package for al dente noodles and use the time that suits your pasta.
- Fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream are all great garnishes for the top of this tasty comfort food.
Variations
For a little tomato flavor stir in a couple tablespoons of tomato sauce or a tablespoon of tomato paste to your sauce.
Add some additional flavor to the family favorite by adding garlic powder, onion powder, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
A splash of heavy creamy will make a creamier sauce - so delicious!
And lastly if you want to sneak some hidden veggies into this easy skillet dinner, saute some zucchini or yellow squash with the ground beef. Or add a handful of chopped spinach, shhh.... the kids will never notice!
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerate - Store leftover hamburger helper in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer - Store your pasta in a freezer-safe container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat - After several attempts to reheat pasta like this, I've found that the best way to reheat it is in a skillet or saucepan with a splash of milk or broth to thin it out. Just keep the heat on medium until it is warm all the way through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warm all the way through.
Related recipes
- Are you a fan of one pot meals? If so you can't go wrong with this American Goulash recipe. It's an easy homemade dinner that is always a crowd-pleaser.
- If you love an easy pasta dish like this one, then be sure and try the beef stroganoff casserole. It's so simple and always family-friendly!
- Are you looking for another classic comfort food recipe? If so, give this Chicken Noodle Casserole a try. It's creamy and comforting and will warm you up from the inside out!
Delicious pairings: what to serve with
Check it out, wouldn't this be an amazing meal with the cheesy beefy pasta?!! The garlic bread is a must and a nice light side with crunchy veggies, oh yes!
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Do you have a favorite hamburger helper memory? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below!
Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 14.5 ounce can of chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni noodles
- 1 ½ cups grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with diced onions in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute. Drain fat if necessary. Seasoning with paprika, chili powder, salt and black pepper.
- Add the milk, chicken stock and macaroni pasta noodles, increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the cheese and serve!
ColleenB.~Tx. says
Much better than store bought.
I mix up all the dry ingredients, including the uncooked elbow macaroni and place in jars and give as gifts. The dry ingredients I have changed somewhat.
Will add label saying what other ingredients they will need to add, along with the directions on how to make it.
Makes for a great gift to put in gift baskets/ birthday baskets, bridal shower baskets; etc.