Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

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Craving comfort food without the processed ingredients? This homemade hamburger helper recipe is your answer! Quick, easy, and delicious, it’s a family favorite that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Why Make Homemade Hamburger Helper?

Store-bought hamburger helper is convenient, but it's often loaded with sodium, preservatives, and artificial flavors. Making it from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and tastier meal for your family.

Healthier Ingredients

By using fresh ingredients, you avoid the additives found in the boxed version. This means less sodium, no artificial flavors, and the ability to choose high-quality, lean ground beef.

Customizable Flavor

Adjust the spices and seasonings to your liking. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Prefer a creamier sauce? Stir in a little extra cheese or cream.

Cost-Effective

Making hamburger helper from scratch can be more budget-friendly than buying the boxed version, especially if you already have some of the ingredients on hand.

What You'll Need

Here’s a list of ingredients to gather before you start:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dried pasta (elbow macaroni or shells work well)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious homemade hamburger helper:

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, pasta, tomato paste, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  5. Stir in Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and creamy.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Add Vegetables

Boost the nutritional value by adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots along with the onion. This is a great way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters.

Use Different Cheese

Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile. For a sharper taste, try adding a bit of sharp cheddar.

Make it Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your hamburger helper a spicy kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.

Creamier Sauce

For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream along with the cheddar cheese. This will make the dish even more indulgent.

Pasta Alternatives

If you don't have elbow macaroni or shells, you can use other small pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade hamburger helper is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. It’s also great as a potluck dish or a comforting weeknight dinner.

Call to Action

Ready to try this easy and delicious recipe? Gather your ingredients and enjoy a comforting meal that's both healthy and satisfying. Share your creations with friends and family!