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Homemade Hamburger Helper

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This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful one-pot meal that’s even better than the boxed version! Made with ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, it’s a quick and easy dinner the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth (or water)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

  1. In a large deep skillet or pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned (5-6 minutes).
  2. Drain excess fat if needed, then add onion and garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add Liquids & Pasta

  1. Stir in beef broth, milk, diced tomatoes (if using), pasta, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Step 3: Add Cheese & Finish

  1. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, sour cream, and butter until melted and creamy.
  2. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Make It Spicier: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use meatless crumbles or mushrooms instead of beef.
  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.
  • Lighter Version: Use ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/homemade-hamburger-helper/