Transform one pound of beef into a mouthwatering meal that tastes like cheeseburger pasta.
If you only have one pound of beef in the fridge and aren’t sure how to jazz it up, then look no further. This recipe is here to take the pressure off your shoulders and help you make a meal that your whole family will drool over. With a savory flavor that’s just as yummy as the OG boxed meal, this homemade Hamburger Helper can make a little burger meat go a long way.
Each bite has the perfect blend of tender macaroni, rich ground beef, and luscious melted cheddar. What more could you ask for in a meal that’s made to satisfy? Oh, and did I mention that it’s all made in one pan on the stove? That means fewer dishes for you to do and more ease for your creative cooking process.
Think this is too basic? Think again! This dish is totally dynamic. If you want to kick it up a notch, use one teaspoon of chili powder instead of half, or top it off with your favorite hot sauce. I also suggest pairing this meal with a side of rolls and salad to complete your family’s dining experience nicely.
A little Hamburger Helper history
Originally sold by Betty Crocker, Hamburger Helper was a boxed meal designed to make the most out of one pound of ground beef. It started as a simple blend of dry noodles and seasonings, which—when mixed with ground beef—could feed a whole family for dinner, potentially with leftovers. As the US economy was struggling and beef prices were soaring, this handy Hamburger Helper truly lived up to its name. Today, it’s still considered a budget-friendly option for many folks, with an iconic flavor combo that tastes like a cheeseburger in pasta form.
How do I store leftovers?
Make sure your leftover homemade Hamburger Helper has cooled to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container, but don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours. Then, refrigerate it for 4-5 days, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and then heat it up in a pot on the stove, stirring occasionally until it’s warm all the way through.
Similar recipes to try
If you want a set-it-and-forget-it recipe, then try Crock-Pot Hamburger Helper—a variation that takes longer but is definitely worth the wait. Of course, there are other ways to get the most out of your ground beef. Try Hamburger Soup, for instance, when you want to cozy up with a warm and comforting broth full of veggies. On the other hand, if you’d like your burger meat experience baked to golden brown perfection, then craft Ground Beef Casserole, also full of gooey and delicious cheese.
Homemade Hamburger Helper
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; bring the mixture to a boil. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and heavy cream, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes. If the liquid is absorbed and the pasta isn’t fully cooked, add a splash or two more of broth so the mixture doesn’t dry out.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and mixed well. Allow the dish to rest for a couple of minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken.
- Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with parsley, and enjoy your comforting meal.
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