Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

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Craving a comforting and delicious meal? Forget the boxed stuff and whip up this easy homemade Hamburger Helper recipe! It's faster, healthier, and tastes so much better than the original. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner.

Why Make Homemade Hamburger Helper?

  • Healthier: You control the ingredients, avoiding artificial flavors, preservatives, and excessive sodium.
  • Tastier: Fresh ingredients create a richer and more satisfying flavor profile.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs.
  • Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than buying pre-packaged Hamburger Helper, especially if you already have pantry staples on hand.

What You'll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious dish:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your homemade Hamburger Helper:

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, milk, uncooked macaroni, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes to thicken further. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.

Tips and Variations

  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
  • Use Different Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef.
  • Creamier Sauce: For a creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream at the end of cooking.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

This homemade Hamburger Helper is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.

Get Creative with Your Hamburger Helper!

This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. Don't be afraid to adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste. Try adding different cheeses, vegetables, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. The possibilities are endless!

So, ditch the box and give this homemade Hamburger Helper recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

Craving more easy dinner ideas? Check out our other delicious recipes!