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Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
why make this recipe
Making Homemade Hamburger Helper is a great way to enjoy a classic, comforting meal without the need for store-bought options. This recipe is simple, quick, and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that brings the family together around the table. Plus, you can customize it to fit your taste!
how to make Homemade Hamburger Helper
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or similar)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until soft.
- Stir in the paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the elbow macaroni, beef broth, and milk, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cover, simmering for about 10-12 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Hamburger Helper!
how to serve Homemade Hamburger Helper
Serve your Homemade Hamburger Helper hot, right from the skillet. It’s perfect on its own or with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. If you like, add some garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for a more filling meal.
how to store Homemade Hamburger Helper
If you have leftovers, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, place the Hamburger Helper in an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Homemade Hamburger Helper
- For a healthier version, use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- Add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you love heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes.
- Use different types of cheese for varied flavor; Monterey Jack or gouda can also work great!
variation
If you want to change things up, consider adding taco seasoning instead of paprika and onion powder for a Tex-Mex twist. You can also make it creamy by adding cream cheese toward the end for an even richer flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Yes! You can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shapes like penne, shells, or even whole wheat pasta.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up while reheating.
Homemade Hamburger Helper
A quick and customizable version of the classic Hamburger Helper that brings the family together for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef You can use ground turkey for a healthier version.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni Other small pasta can be used as a substitute.
- 2 cups beef broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian version.
- 1 cup milk Adjust the amount as needed when reheating.
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda work well.
- 1 onion, chopped For added flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aroma and taste.
- 1 tsp paprika Can be substituted with taco seasoning.
- 1 tsp onion powder Adjust based on preference.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until soft.
- Stir in the paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the elbow macaroni, beef broth, and milk, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cover, simmering for about 10-12 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Hamburger Helper!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the fridge before reheating.
