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Savory Homemade Hamburger Helper

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This homemade skillet dish features hearty ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and melty cheddar cheese for a comforting one-pan dinner. Onion, garlic, and tomatoes add robust flavor complexity, while a blend of paprika and herbs brings out savory notes. All is simmered together in beef broth and milk, allowing the pasta to soak up rich flavors while keeping cleanup simple. It’s a satisfying meal that delivers nostalgia and freshness with each bite—perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave classic comfort food.

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A woman in an apron is preparing a meal in a sunny kitchen filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Updated on Mon, 18 Aug 2025 13:21:33 GMT
A plate of Hamburger Helper Delight, a savory homemade dish, is presented on a wooden table. Pin it
A plate of Hamburger Helper Delight, a savory homemade dish, is presented on a wooden table. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This comforting homemade version of Hamburger Helper comes together with wholesome ingredients and is easy enough for any busy weeknight I love this recipe because it takes me right back to childhood but with better flavor and no mystery packets My family always fights over the last scoop

I whipped this up the first time when my pantry was running low and it instantly became a go to meal My husband always asks if it is Hamburger Helper night

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: brings hearty flavor Make sure it is fresh and well marbled for juiciness
  • Onion: gives natural sweetness and depth Look for firm onions with dry skins
  • Garlic: packs a punch with aromatic flavor Fresh cloves beat pre chopped every time
  • Beef broth: creates a rich base Try to use low sodium for balanced taste
  • Milk: yields a creamy texture Whole milk is best for richness
  • Elbow macaroni: is classic and soaks up sauce perfectly Choose a quality brand for best bite
  • Diced tomatoes: add tang and moisture Use canned tomatoes with no added sugars
  • Paprika: boosts color and a gentle smokiness Use fresh spice for best flavor
  • Dried parsley: gives a hint of herbal freshness Crumble between fingers before adding
  • Onion powder and garlic powder: layer on savory notes Opt for well sealed jars for strong aroma
  • Salt and black pepper: season everything evenly Taste your broth and adjust as needed
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: makes that irresistible gooey finish Buy a block and shred for best melt

Instructions

Brown the Beef:
Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat Use a wooden spoon to break it up and stir until fully browned and no pink remains This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish balanced and not greasy
Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet Stir and cook until the onion turns translucent and soft which should take about 3 minutes This step develops the aromatic base and sweetens the flavors
Simmer the Pasta:
Into the pan stir in beef broth and milk making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the pan for flavor Add uncooked macaroni diced tomatoes with all their juices paprika dried parsley onion powder garlic powder salt and black pepper Bring everything up to a boil over medium high heat then reduce heat to low Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until macaroni is just tender
Cheesy Finish:
Remove the skillet from heat Stir in shredded cheddar cheese in handfuls mixing until melted smooth and the sauce has thickened This gives you that trademark cheesy pull and glossy sauce
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the pan sit uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes for the sauce to thicken slightly Enjoy piping hot
A plate of Hamburger Helper Delight, featuring a delicious combination of pasta and meat, is presented on a dining table. Pin it
A plate of Hamburger Helper Delight, featuring a delicious combination of pasta and meat, is presented on a dining table. | myhomemaderecipe.com

My favorite part is always the stringy cheddar cheese that stretches across each scoop One time I made a double batch for a family movie night and there was hardly a spoonful left everyone agreed it was the best version yet

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days If the sauce thickens after chilling simply add a splash of milk and heat on the stovetop stirring until creamy again This also freezes well in single portions just reheat gently to preserve the cheesy texture

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter twist Swap in your favorite cheese or add a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack for extra melt If you need gluten free just pick a sturdy gluten free pasta and keep the rest of the recipe the same

Serving Suggestions

This is plenty hearty solo but I like to offer a crisp green salad or buttered garlic bread alongside Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds color and brightness My kids love it with extra shredded cheese over the top

Cultural Notes

Homemade Hamburger Helper is an American weeknight staple evolved from the boxed original in the seventies Today it feels nostalgic and homey yet modern homemade versions like this skip additives and put real flavor first

A plate of Hamburger Helper Delight, a savory homemade dish, is presented on a wooden table. Pin it
A plate of Hamburger Helper Delight, a savory homemade dish, is presented on a wooden table. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This recipe proves comfort food can be easy and homemade with real ingredients Try it on your next busy weeknight and watch everyone dig in with big smiles

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini also work well and absorb the sauce attractively.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option, though flavors will vary slightly.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

Simmer with the lid on and check doneness after 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try sautéed bell peppers, a dash of hot sauce, or smoked paprika to deepen tastes and add variety.

Savory Homemade Hamburger Helper Delight

Cheesy skillet pasta with beef, tomatoes, and hearty flavors for an easy, comforting family meal.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (One family-sized skillet)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 450 g ground beef
02 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 480 ml beef broth
05 360 ml whole milk
06 200 g elbow macaroni, uncooked
07 1 can (410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
08 2 g paprika
09 2 g dried parsley
10 2 g onion powder
11 2 g garlic powder
12 6 g salt
13 1 g black pepper
14 200 g shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat and return the pan to the heat.

Step 02

Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 03

Stir in beef broth, milk, uncooked elbow macaroni, undrained diced tomatoes, paprika, dried parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all elements evenly.

Step 04

Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 05

Remove from heat. Add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until thoroughly melted and incorporated. Serve immediately.

Notes

  1. For a smoother sauce, use freshly shredded cheese and avoid pre-shredded varieties with added anti-caking agents.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains milk, wheat (gluten), and cheese. May contain traces of soy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 485
  • Total Fat: 24 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 37 g
  • Protein: 29 g