Description
Discover the ultimate homemade version of the classic comfort food, Homemade Hamburger Helper, a creamy, cheesy one‑pan dinner that rivals the boxed mix. This quick recipe combines ground beef, tender pasta, savory beef broth, milk, and shredded cheddar for a rich sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it delivers hearty flavor, budget‑friendly ingredients, and a satisfying meal for the whole family. Serve it with a green salad or warm garlic bread for extra texture
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow or shell pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat, then add beef broth, pasta, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 10‑12 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.
Notes
- For a richer flavor
- deglaze the pan with a splash of grape juice after browning the beef. Add frozen peas or chopped carrots during the simmer for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Homemade Hamburger Helper, easy pasta dinner, quick beef casserole, creamy beef pasta, one pan meals, budget friendly dinner, cheddar cheese pasta, how to make hamburger helper, homemade comfort food, quick weeknight meals, family dinner ideas