A creamy, cheesy, one-pot pasta dish made in just 30 minutes — this homemade version of the classic Hamburger Helper is healthier, budget-friendly, and incredibly comforting. I love how it brings the nostalgic flavor of the boxed version but with fresh, real ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty without much cleanup.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. I drain any excess fat if needed.
Next, I add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
I stir in the tomato paste, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. I cook this mixture for about 1 minute to let the flavors develop.
Then, I add the uncooked macaroni, beef broth, and milk. I stir everything together so the pasta is evenly coated.
Next I bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. I cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Once the pasta is cooked, I remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
I taste and adjust the seasonings if needed, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: approximately 410 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
For extra flavor, I like adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce before simmering.
To boost the veggies, I stir in some chopped spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers.
Swapping cheddar for pepper jack or a mix of cheeses gives it a fun twist.
I occasionally use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta depending on my dietary needs.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or broth and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. The sauce thickens slightly after chilling, so that bit of liquid helps bring back the creamy texture. I don’t recommend freezing this dish because the pasta can become too soft once thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I can cook it a day ahead and reheat it with a bit of milk before serving. It tastes just as good the next day.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. I like using shells, rotini, or penne — just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
I skip the beef and use plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils, and I swap the broth for vegetable broth.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes, I sometimes add a pinch of chili flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
What can I serve with homemade Hamburger Helper?
I like serving it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This easy homemade Hamburger Helper has become one of my go-to comfort meals. I love that it’s quick, creamy, and full of flavor — all made in one pot with simple ingredients. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and comfort, making it a dish I come back to again and again.
Recipe:
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Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy, cheesy one-pot pasta dish that’s a homemade version of the classic Hamburger Helper — healthier, quick to make, and packed with nostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in tomato paste, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add the uncooked macaroni, beef broth, and milk. Stir to coat the pasta.
- Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasonings if needed, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add Worcestershire or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Boost veggies by adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers.
Swap in different cheeses like pepper jack for a twist.
Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
