Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 pound 93% lean ground beef; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 cup tomato sauce (or passata/puree); 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 3/4 cup 2% milk (or dairy‑free milk); 8 ounces dry pasta (cavatappi, rotini, elbows, shells, or gluten‑free); 1 cup part‑skim sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy‑free cheese)

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A creamy, cheesy, and comforting skillet meal that brings all of the Flavor without the box. This homemade version is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Customizable for dietary needs—swap in dairy-free milk and cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
One-pot dinner minimizes cleanup and maximizes convenience.
Ready in about 30 minutes, ideal for families or busy nights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3/4 pound 93% lean ground beef
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup tomato sauce (or passata/puree)
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup 2% milk (or dairy‑free milk)
8 ounces dry pasta (cavatappi, rotini, elbows, shells, or gluten‑free)
1 cup part‑skim sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy‑free cheese)

Directions

Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, salt, and paprika. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the meat is browned, breaking it into small pieces.
Stir in chopped onion and garlic; cook until aromatic, about 2–3 minutes.
Add tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the mixture is slightly dry and beginning to caramelize.
Pour in chicken broth and add pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until pasta is nearly tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Uncover, stir in milk, cover again, and simmer on medium-low for another 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce is creamy.
Remove from heat, uncover, and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 4 generous portions
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
Spicy kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
Cheesy twist: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Tomato richness: Stir in 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes or skip the tomato sauce for a cheesier tone.
Veggie boost: Toss in 1 cup frozen peas or diced bell peppers toward the end of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Keeps for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating on stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to re-soften the sauce.
Reheating in microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between; add a little liquid if needed to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes—ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work great. Adjust salt and seasonings as these meats can be milder.

2. Can I skip the tomato sauce?

Absolutely. Omit the tomato sauce for a plain cheesy version, though the tomato adds a nice depth of flavor.

3. What pasta works best?

Small shapes like cavatappi, rotini, elbows, or small shells absorb the sauce well. Gluten-free pasta can be used if needed.

4. How can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free milk (like almond or oat) and dairy-free cheddar-style shreds. The result is still creamy and delicious.

5. Can I add vegetables?

Yes—add frozen peas, corn, spinach, or bell peppers. Stir in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through without overcooking.

6. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can brown the meat and mix in pasta, broth, sauce, and spices, then refrigerate. Finish cooking and add milk and cheese just before serving.

7. Why did my sauce turn out too watery?

If the sauce is watery, cook uncovered for a few extra minutes or increase heat slightly to allow excess liquid to evaporate.

8. Can I make this spicier?

Yes—add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce when you add the pasta and broth.

9. Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes. Portion and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat as described above.

10. Can I top it with anything?

Fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of Parmesan add a bright note. A drizzle of hot sauce works too.

Conclusion

This Homemade Hamburger Helper delivers all the nostalgic comfort of the classic boxed version, but with fresher flavors and ingredients. It’s easy, customizable, and perfect for satisfying meals any day of the week. Make it your own with protein or veggie swaps, spice adjustments, or even mood toppings—it’s fuss-free family cooking at its best.

Ezabella