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Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe Perfect for Busy Families

homemade Hamburger Helper - featured image
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This homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is a nostalgic hug in a bowl, offering fresher, tastier comfort food perfect for busy families.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
  • 1 small onion, diced finely
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or shell pasta or penne)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: diced carrots, peas, or spinach

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  4. Add the pasta to the skillet, followed by beef broth and milk. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Check the pasta for doneness. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to keep the mixture saucy.
  7. Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. If adding optional veggies, stir them in now and let them heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness.’, ‘Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.’, ‘Season at different stages to build layers of flavor.’, ‘Adjust sauce thickness with milk or broth as needed.’, ‘Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta directly in the skillet.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Hamburger Helper, comfort food, quick dinner, kid-friendly, homemade recipe

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/homemade-hamburger-helper-recipe-perfect-for-busy-families/