Homemade Hamburger Helper
Homemade Hamburger Helper is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce into a delightful one-pot dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this nostalgic recipe delivers warmth and flavor with every bite, making it a favorite for families and late-night snackers alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and onions until crumbly (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in elbow macaroni, beef broth, and milk. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 467
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables such as peas or bell peppers. Substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter option.