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
Scale
- 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