Homemade Hamburger Helper
This homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick and comforting one-pot dish perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something cheesy and filling. With ground beef, noodles, and melted cheddar cheese all cooked together, it’s a classic meal that’s simple, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Skip the boxed version and enjoy this fresher, tastier take on a family favorite!
Get my new cookbook!
Save this Recipe For Later
Enter your email below to save, plus get new recipes right in your inbox!
-or-
Why You’ll Love Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Quick & Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup and ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for hectic nights.
- Customizable & Flavorful: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and use your favorite type of pasta and cheese.
- Cheesy & Comforting: The melted cheddar cheese makes this dish creamy and satisfying for kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly & Family-Friendly: Using simple pantry staples, this dish is affordable and sure to be a hit with everyone.
What You Need to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
To make this simple dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. Check the recipe card below for exact amounts:
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Aromatics & Seasonings: Diced onion, tomato paste, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt & pepper.
- Beef Broth: Creates a savory base for the dish.
- Noodles: Any type of short pasta works, like macaroni, rotini, or shells.
- Cheddar Cheese: Mild shredded cheddar for a creamy, cheesy finish.
How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
1
Brown the Meat & Onions: In a shallow Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is softened.
2
Add Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder. Let it cook for about 3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3
Add Broth & Noodles: Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Add your noodles and cook on medium heat until they are al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4
Finish with Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt & pepper to taste. Serve and enjoy your cheesy, comforting bowl of Hamburger Helper!
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even bowtie will work well in this recipe.
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative can be used in place of ground beef.
How can I make the dish creamier?
For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream when you add the cheese, and stir until smooth.
Can I add vegetables to this Hamburger Helper?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Hamburger Helper
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20
- 1/2 onion diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Garlic powder to taste
- Chili powder to taste
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup noodles of choice macaroni, rotini, or shells work well
- Mild cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- In a shallow Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is cooked through and the onion is softened.
- Add the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder to the pot. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Add in the noodles and cook on medium heat until they are al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve and enjoy!
