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Homemade Hamburger Helper

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Homemade Hamburger Helper is a one-skillet meal combining ground beef, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comforting, quick, and family-friendly dinner that tastes better than the boxed version—made with real, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or other short pasta)
  • 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (or ketchup)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
  2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
  4. Pour in beef broth and milk. Stir in the uncooked pasta and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  6. Remove lid and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Adjust seasoning to taste, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use rotini, shells, or penne if elbow macaroni isn’t available—adjust cook time accordingly.
  • Ketchup can substitute for tomato paste in a pinch.
  • For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or more cheese.
  • To lighten it up, use ground turkey or chicken and low-fat cheese.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/homemade-hamburger-helper/