Description

Homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting, easy-to-make meal made with lean ground beef or turkey, pasta, and a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce. This healthier, homemade version of the classic comfort food is quick to prepare and customizable to suit your taste. It’s the perfect one-pot meal that your whole family will love!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)

2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup milk

1 tablespoon ketchup (optional for a tangy kick)

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

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Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, milk, ketchup (if using), Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer the Pasta: Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Add more broth if the mixture gets too thick.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the simmering mixture. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with more cheese if desired.

Notes

Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers to the skillet.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Swap Protein: Use ground chicken or a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Different Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Creamier Sauce: For a richer sauce, add cream cheese or sour cream when mixing in the cheese.

Prep Time: 5min
Cook Time: 20min
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American