Homemade Hamburger Helper

Homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting, one-pot meal made with ground beef, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This from-scratch version of the classic boxed favorite is quick, easy, and so much better with real ingredients and bold flavor—perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 1/2 cups milk

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional, for heat)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).

4. Pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir to combine.

5. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.

7. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

8. Let sit for a couple of minutes to thicken before serving.

Nutrients (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 480

• Total Fat: 25g

• Saturated Fat: 11g

• Cholesterol: 85mg

• Sodium: 670mg

• Total Carbohydrate: 35g

• Dietary Fiber: 2g

• Sugars: 5g

• Protein: 28g