Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper: Classic Skillet Meal (Print Version)
Recreate the classic comfort food with this easy homemade Hamburger Helper recipe. A quick and satisfying one-pan meal for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Savory Starter
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef (85/15)
02 -
1 yellow onion, diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ The Hearty Pasta Core
04 -
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
→ The Rich & Tangy Sauce
05 -
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
06 -
1/4 cup tomato paste
07 -
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
08 -
1 cup 2% milk
09 -
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
10 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
11 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
12 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ The Creamy Cheesy Finish
13 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15) over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Drain any excess fat. Add 1 yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
02 -
Pour in 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, 1/4 cup tomato paste, 2 cups low-sodium beef broth, 1 cup 2% milk, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Season with 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
03 -
Stir in 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it's fully submerged in the liquid. This is crucial for the pasta to cook properly and absorb the delicious flavors in your Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer.
04 -
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it rests, creating a perfect Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe.
05 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it's fully melted and creamy. This step adds the signature cheesy goodness to your Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed for optimal flavor.
06 -
Let the Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe rest for 5 minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, one-pan meal with your family.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of 2% milk. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if preferred.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it's too thick.
03 -
Garnish individual servings with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra shredded sharp cheddar cheese for added freshness and visual appeal. A simple side salad pairs wonderfully.
04 -
Don't skip the Worcestershire sauce; it adds a crucial depth of umami to the dish. For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Measuring cups
03 -
Measuring spoons
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
06 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
07 -
Cheese grater
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 473 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 37 g
Protein: 31 g