Description
Homemade Hamburger Helper is a rich and cheesy one-pan comfort meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta shells, tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 8 oz small pasta shells or elbow pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large sauté pan, brown ground beef over medium-high heat.
- Remove beef and reserve 2 tablespoons grease in pan.
- Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in broth and bring to a boil.
- Add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pasta.
- Reduce to simmer, cover, and cook 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add extra broth if needed while cooking.
- Stir in cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
- Return beef to pan and cook 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Let rest briefly to thicken, then serve.
Notes
- Ground turkey works great as a lighter option.
- Add peas or spinach for extra vegetables.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American