This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. The savory flavors of garlic and chili powder blend perfectly with the beef broth, creating a hearty meal. Without the need for boxed ingredients, you can control the seasonings and enjoy a healthier, tastier version of the classic. This quick, one-pot dish is perfect for busy nights when you crave a comforting, cheesy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound extra-lean ground beef

• ½ medium onion, chopped

• 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• 3 cups beef broth

• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni

• 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to a large pot. Cook over medium-high heat for about 7-10 minutes, breaking up the beef as it browns. Drain any excess fat.

2. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder, allowing the spices to cook for about 1 minute.

3. Pour in the beef broth, increase the heat to high, and bring it to a boil.

4. Once boiling, add the uncooked macaroni. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 13-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.

5. Grate the cheddar cheese while the pasta cooks. Once the pasta is done, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to absorb any remaining sauce before serving.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 460 kcal

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 890mg