Homemade Hamburger Helper

Goodbye to Hamburger Helper from the shop! This handmade take on the traditional comfort dish is flavorful and incredibly simple to prepare. You can make a filling dinner that will satisfy your cravings with basic items. Prepare to up your dinner game with this recipe for homemade hamburger helper.

Tasting Notes

This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a delightful blend of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and comforting. The homemade touch adds a depth of taste that surpasses the boxed version, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk

Kitchen Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is softened.
3. Season: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Cheese Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
7. Serve: Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

• For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations to tailor the dish to your taste.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

FAQs