Homemade Hamburger Helper

Homemade Hamburger Helper

30 min
4 servings

Ready in 30 minutes and with just one-pot, this easy and extra cheesy Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is sure to be a new family favorite! Every bite features tender pasta and savory ground beef smothered in a rich, creamy tomato and cheese sauce.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 large yellow onion (diced)
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 oz small pasta shells (or small elbow pasta (Keep in mind 8 oz is half of a normal 1lb box of pasta.))
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large sauté pan with a lid, brown the ground beef over medium high heat. Remove cooked ground beef from pan and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.

  2. 2

    Lower the heat to medium and add the onion. Cook the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic for the last 30 seconds.

  3. 3

    Add the flour and stir to cook for about 1 minute, slowly stir in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. 4

    Pour in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder and pasta, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, cover with lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

  5. 5

    Add in the cream and cheese and stir until all the cheese melted. Add back in ground beef, cook for 2 to 3 minutes more to re-heat ground beef and serve immediately!