Homemade Creamy Hamburger Helper
This creamy homemade Hamburger Helper is the ultimate one-pot comfort meal. Made with seasoned ground beef, cheesy sauce, and tender pasta, it outshines the boxed version every time. Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples, it's perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 works best
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or rotini
- 2 cups beef broth low sodium
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz cream cheese cubed
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters:
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 diced onion
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn
- 1 can diced tomatoes drained
Instructions
Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
Build the Flavor Base:
- Stir in tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute. Add onion soup mix and paprika, coating the beef.
Add Liquids and Pasta:
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Stir in uncooked pasta. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
Make it Creamy:
- Remove from heat. Stir in cubed cream cheese until melted. Slowly add milk while stirring until smooth and creamy.
Finish with Cheese:
- Add shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Add more milk if too thick.
Notes
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option (add extra seasoning).
Try different cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss.
Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
Nutrition
Calories: 510kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 26gFat: 30g
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