Homemade Hamburger Helper
Create your Homemade Hamburger Helper in a few easy steps. Brown ground beef, sauté veggies, add seasonings, macaroni, broth, milk, and tomatoes. Simmer, stir in cheese, and let it rest. Enjoy a customizable, flavorful dish that beats store-bought versions. Personalize with favorite veggies or leaner meats. This quick and reheatable recipe gives you control over your meal without sacrificing convenience. Embrace the simplicity and flavor of a homemade classic!
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded c
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onions, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle oregano, basil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the meat and vegetables. Stir to combine.
- Incorporate Pasta and Liquids: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet. Pour in beef broth, milk, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Cheese Time: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's melted and creamy.
- Garnish and Rest: Remove the skillet from heat. Let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Dish out the Homemade Hamburger Helper onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for added flavor.
- This dish reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.