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Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

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  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Comfort Food
  • Method: One-Pot Meal
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Recreate the creamy, cheesy comfort of your childhood favorite with this healthier homemade Hamburger Helper! Made with real ingredients, this one-pot meal is quick, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 oz small pasta shells or elbow pasta
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef:
    • Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
    • Remove the beef from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons of grease.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
    • Lower the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Create the Sauce Base:
    • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat evenly.
    • Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
    • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Add Seasonings and Pasta:
    • Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
    • Add the pasta, stirring to combine evenly.
  5. Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender:
    • Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
    • If the mixture becomes too dry before the pasta is cooked, add ¼–½ cup of broth.
  6. Add Cream and Cheese:
    • Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
    • Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine and Serve:
    • Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and mix well.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • Substitute heavy cream with milk for a lower-fat version.
  • Customize with additional vegetables like peas or diced carrots for added nutrition.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://yumandjoy.com/homemade-hamburger-helper-recipe-2/