Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
903 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Description
Ground beef is browned with coarse salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a savory base. After draining excess fat, uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth are added directly to the skillet. The pasta simmers uncovered on low heat, absorbing broth and flavors until al dente.
Milk and cheddar cheese are then stirred in to form a creamy sauce coating the pasta and beef evenly, followed by incorporation of drained diced tomatoes for added texture and mild acidity. This method combines protein, starch, and dairy in one pan for a hearty dish.
The cooked elbow macaroni absorbs the broth and seasonings, providing soft, cheesy bites with savory beef elements. The diced tomatoes add a touch of brightness. This dish can be served as a quick weeknight meal or casual family dinner, taking advantage of common pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter unsalted
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 teaspoon sea salt coarse
- 1 teaspoon black pepper ground
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 4 1/2 cups beef broth low sodium
- 16 ounces dry elbow macaroni
- 1 cup milk whole
- 2 cups cheddar cheese , grated
- 16 ounces diced tomatoes drained, petite
Instructions
- In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, melt the butter over medium high heat. Add the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder and onion powder, breaking ground beef as it cooks. Brown on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat, if there is just a little, don't worry about it. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth. Spread evenly in the pan, simmering on low. Stir twice to ensure all of the pasta has had a chance to soak up the broth. Simmer for 7-9 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
- Fold in the milk and cheese until incorporated and cheesy. Fold in drained tomatoes.
- If you've tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 903 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 903kcal | 45% |
| Carbohydrates | 66g | 22% |
| Protein | 50g | 100% |
| Fat | 47g | 72% |
| Saturated Fat | 21g | 105% |
| Cholesterol | 155mg | 52% |
| Sodium | 1532mg | 64% |
| Potassium | 1013mg | 22% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 665IU | 13% |
| Vitamin C | 7.3mg | 8% |
| Calcium | 402mg | 40% |
| Iron | 5.6mg | 31% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.