Description
Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this Homemade Beef Hamburger Helper, a nostalgic favorite reimagined with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy a hearty, complete meal that the whole family will devour, all in one pot!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lean ground beef (around 85–15 or 90-10)
- 2 cups small pasta shapes (elbow macaroni, ditalini, or small shells)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup sharp or medium cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning blend
- Optional: a dash of Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
- 1. Prepare the Pan: Place a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- 2. Cook the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the hot pan. Break it up with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until completely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3. Drain Fat (if needed): Carefully drain any excess grease from the pan if desired.
- 4. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Build the Flavorful Sauce
- 5. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 6. Season It Up: Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and any dried herbs. Stir well to coat the mixture.
- 7. Deglaze and Add Liquids: Pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits. Add milk and Worcestershire sauce (if using), stirring until well combined.
- Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- 8. Bring to a Simmer: Increase heat slightly and bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 9. Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked small pasta shape, ensuring it's mostly submerged.
- 10. Cover and Cook: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes. Add more beef broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
- Step 4: Finish with Cheese
- 11. Remove from Heat: Once pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed, remove from heat.
- 12. Stir in Cheese: Add grated cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- 13. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Step 5: Serve
- 14. Serve Immediately: Dish out portions and enjoy while hot.
- 15. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or chives for color.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Don't overcook the pasta; aim for al dente. Adjust the consistency with beef broth or milk as needed. Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.