Homemade Hamburger Helper
Ready in 30 minutes and with just one-pot, this easy and extra cheesy Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is sure to be a new family favorite! Every bite features tender pasta and savory ground beef smothered in a rich, creamy tomato and cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy gatherings, or whenever you crave comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Homemade Hamburger Helper can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze.
- Flavorful Comfort: The creamy tomato sauce combined with melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor that your family will love.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home, like using turkey instead of beef or different types of pasta.
- Kid-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gathering the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large sauté pan with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large sauté pan with lid: Ensures even cooking while allowing you to cover the dish to retain moisture.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantee precise measurements for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
– 1 large yellow onion (diced)
– 1 garlic clove (minced)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (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 small elbow pasta (Keep in mind 8 oz is half of a normal 1lb box of pasta.))
– ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large sauté pan with a lid, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Remove the cooked ground beef from the pan and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the onion. Cook the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic for the last 30 seconds to enhance its flavor.
Step 3: Create the Base Sauce
Add the flour and stir to cook for about 1 minute. Slowly stir in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Pour in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pasta. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally. If your noodles are not cooked through but you’re running out of liquid, add an extra 1/4 to 1/2 cup of broth as needed.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Cream
Add in the cream and cheese; stir until all the cheese has melted into a rich sauce. Add back in the ground beef and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to reheat it thoroughly. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute or two so that the sauce can thicken before serving immediately!
How to Serve Homemade Hamburger Helper
Serving your Homemade Hamburger Helper can elevate the meal experience for you and your family. Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty dish.
With a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with vinaigrette enhances the meal’s freshness.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons pair perfectly with the cheesy pasta.
Add Some Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making a tasty contrast to the savory hamburger helper.
Tasty Bread Options
- Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky treats are perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.
Top It Off
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for an aromatic finish that brightens flavors.
- Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top right before serving makes it even cheesier!
How to Perfect Homemade Hamburger Helper
To make your Homemade Hamburger Helper truly exceptional, consider these tips:
- Choose Quality Meat: Using lean ground beef or turkey ensures a flavorful base without excess grease.
- Don’t Rush the Onions: Sautéing onions until soft brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Adjust Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on your pasta; if it absorbs too much liquid, add broth gradually to avoid dryness.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can create exciting flavor variations.
- Spice It Up: Adding crushed red pepper flakes can give your dish a spicy kick if desired.
- Let It Rest: Allowing your finished dish to sit for a few minutes helps thicken the sauce for better consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Hamburger Helper
Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Hamburger Helper can enhance your dinner table. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that complements the main dish.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of hamburger helper.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful pop of sweetness and is easy to prepare alongside your main meal.
- Baked Beans: Their smoky flavor pairs well with beef, creating a hearty combination.
- Grilled Asparagus: Slightly charred asparagus adds elegance and vibrant color to your plate.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta dish.
- Fried Zucchini Chips: Crunchy zucchini chips are an enjoyable finger food option that kids love!
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad gives a sweet finish and aids digestion after a rich meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Homemade Hamburger Helper, small missteps can impact the final dish. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them:
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Follow the cooking time closely and check for doneness a minute or two early.
- Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can result in less flavor. Take your time to sear it well before adding other ingredients.
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season adequately can leave your dish bland. Be sure to use Italian seasoning and other spices as directed for full flavor.
- Using high-sodium broth: High-sodium broth can make your dish overly salty. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of your Homemade Hamburger Helper.
- Adding cream too soon: Incorporating cream at the wrong stage can affect texture. Always add it after the pasta has cooked for optimal creaminess.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, covering with foil if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Homemade Hamburger Helper:
What is Homemade Hamburger Helper?
Homemade Hamburger Helper is a one-pot meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy sauce, offering convenience and comfort.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well as a lean alternative in this Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe.
How can I customize my Homemade Hamburger Helper?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This easy recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Hamburger Helper is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses based on your family’s preferences. Give this comforting dish a try; it might just become your new go-to weeknight meal!
Homemade Hamburger Helper
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Homemade Hamburger Helper is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes. This one-pot meal features tender pasta enveloped in a creamy tomato and cheese sauce, combined with savory ground beef for a satisfying dish that the whole family will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, gatherings, or whenever you crave a hearty meal. With its rich flavors and kid-friendly appeal, this easy recipe can be customized to suit your pantry staples, making it both versatile and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 large yellow onion (diced)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (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 small elbow pasta)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium and sauté onions until soft, then add garlic for the last 30 seconds.
- Stir in flour for 1 minute, then gradually add beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add tomato sauce, seasonings, and pasta; stir well. Cover and simmer for about 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Mix in cream and cheese until melted; return cooked beef to the pan and heat through before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
