Homemade Hamburger Helper
This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting one-pot meal that combines pasta, ground beef, and a creamy sauce made with common pantry ingredients. It's easy to prepare and can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great dinner option for busy nights.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or frying pan
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 cooking pot (for pasta)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat and return the skillet to the heat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet along with the beef broth and milk. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade hamburger helper!
Notes
Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.