Homemade Hamburger Helper

Homemade Hamburger Helper - cheesy, beefy, quick and easy comfort food that is ready in just 30 minutes. This homemade version tastes just way better than the boxed ones. A one-pot meal that the whole family would approve!

Course Main

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Total Time 30

Servings

Calories 573kcal

Author Imma

Ingredients

1 pound (453.59g) ground beef
1 tablespoon (14ml) oil
1 medium onion , finely chopped
3 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons (1.6g) minced thyme
2 teaspoons (10g) minced garlic
3 tablespoons (48g) tomato paste
2 teaspoons (4g) paprika
½ teaspoon (1.36g) chili powder
2 ½ cup (625ml) beef broth or water
2 cups (480ml) whole milk
2 cups (200g) dried elbow macaroni pasta
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
½ cup (50g) grated cheese (strictly optional)

Instructions

Heat oil a large skillet or cast iron over medium high heat. Once heated add ground beef, breaking it up and stirring for about a minute or so.
Next, add onions and continue cooking for about 3-5 minutes, or until onions are soft.
Add flour, thyme, garlic, tomato paste, paprika, and chili powder over browned meat and stir well to fully incorporate all the spices; cook for about 1-2 minutes.
Pour beef broth or water, milk, pasta, salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil. Cover with a lid, reduce heat and simmer for about 8-11 minutes, stirring occasionally or until the pasta is al dente or to desired doneness. It might take more or less minutes, depending on the pasta use.
Remove from the heat, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese, if desired. Sauce will thicken as it cools down.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, then serve.

Notes

When using grated cheese, make sure to use freshly grated cheese for better results.
Feel free to add a bit more of water - starting with 1/4 cup - if you think your skillet is running out of liquid with still a lot of cooking time left.
Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on products used.

Nutrition