Homemade Hamburger Helper – Easy One-Pot Dinner
This homemade hamburger helper is a cheesy, creamy, one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ground beef, pasta, and pantry staples, it’s faster, fresher, and tastier than the boxed version. Even beginner cooks will love how simple and satisfying it is!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta uncooked
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces until browned.
- Stir in diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Mix in tomato paste, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour in milk, broth, and uncooked macaroni. Stir, then bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For the best flavor, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded. To switch things up, try making your homemade hamburger helper with ground turkey or add peas for extra veggies.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
Calories: 480
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 550mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Calories: 480
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 550mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g