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Homemade Hamburger Helper

A creamy, cheesy one-pot beef and pasta dish that tastes even better than the boxed version — made with fresh ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Dish
  • 1 lb ground beef 85/15 lean preferred
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth low sodium
  • 1.5 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp preferred

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix to coat the beef evenly.
  4. Pour in beef broth, milk, and uncooked pasta. Stir and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot, garnished with parsley or extra cheese.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce. Great for leftovers or freezing.