Homemade Hamburger Helper – A Creamy, Cheesy, One-Pot
This Homemade Hamburger Helper features savory ground beef, tender pasta, flavorful seasonings, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce cooked together in a single pot. The result is a rich, comforting meal that is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this homemade version offers a healthier and more delicious alternative to the boxed classic.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.Add ground beef and diced onion.Cook until beef is browned and onions are softened.
- Drain excess grease if necessary.Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds
- Stir in tomato paste.Add beef broth and milk.
- Mix in paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.Stir well to combine.
- Add uncooked macaroni.Bring mixture to a gentle boil.Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes.Stir occasionally until pasta is tender.
- Remove pot from heat.Stir in cheddar cheese.Add cream cheese if using.Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add extra broth if pasta absorbs too much liquid.
- Sharp cheddar provides the best flavour.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Leftovers thicken as they cool.
- Great for meal prep and reheating.