Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 8 oz small pasta shells; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

Homemade Hamburger Helper brings everything you crave in a comforting skillet dinner together in just 30 minutes. This rich and creamy pasta dish combines tender shells, savory ground beef, and a bold tomato cheddar sauce that tastes far better than the boxed version. If you love a hearty, one pot ground beef pasta that saves time and satisfies everyone at the table, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Story

I started making Homemade Hamburger Helper on busy weeknights when I needed something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Store-bought versions felt convenient, yet they never delivered the creamy texture and bold flavor I wanted. So I created this from-scratch Homemade Hamburger Helper using simple pantry staples and real cheddar cheese.

Because this Homemade Hamburger Helper cooks in one pan, cleanup stays easy. Plus, the sauce thickens naturally as the pasta simmers, which makes it incredibly satisfying. Over time, it became our go-to easy weeknight meal, especially when everyone wanted seconds.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
8 oz small pasta shells (or small elbow pasta)
½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic so everything cooks smoothly. Measure the seasonings and shred the cheddar cheese if you use a block. Keep the broth and tomato sauce nearby because you will add them quickly once the roux forms.

Cooking Instructions

Heat a large sauté pan with a lid over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Remove the beef and set it aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan. Reduce the heat to medium, add the onion, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute to create a light roux. Slowly pour in the broth while stirring, then bring it to a gentle boil. Add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pasta. Stir well, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until the pasta becomes tender. Stir occasionally and add extra broth if needed.

Once the pasta softens, stir in the cream and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Return the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat, let it rest briefly to thicken, then serve.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not rush the simmering stage because the pasta absorbs the broth as it cooks. If the skillet dries out too quickly, add a splash of broth to prevent sticking. Also, shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties since freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly in this cheesy beef skillet.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Toast the spices briefly before adding liquids to deepen their flavor. Additionally, choose sharp cheddar for a richer taste. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground turkey while keeping the same seasonings. This recipe remains a reliable budget friendly dinner that tastes indulgent without expensive ingredients.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Homemade Hamburger Helper immediately while the sauce stays creamy and glossy. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Because kids love cheesy pasta, this dish also works beautifully as a kid friendly pasta option for family dinners.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to restore the sauce’s smooth texture.

Conclusion

Homemade Hamburger Helper proves that comfort food does not need complicated steps. With one pot and simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, satisfying dinner that beats any boxed version. Make it once, and it will quickly become part of your weekly rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Homemade Hamburger Helper gluten free?

Yes. Use gluten free pasta and replace the flour with cornstarch. You may need extra broth and a slightly longer simmer time. Mix 2 teaspoons cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water, stir it in once the pasta cooks, and simmer until thickened.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a large Dutch oven or deep pot if you double or triple the ingredients. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust seasoning to taste.

Can I freeze Homemade Hamburger Helper?

Freezing works, but the texture changes slightly because pasta absorbs liquid. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within a few days.