This homemade hamburger helper is a comforting one-pan meal made with tender pasta, savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It delivers all the nostalgic flavor of the classic dish, but with fresh ingredients and full control over seasoning and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick enough for busy weeknights yet hearty enough to satisfy the whole family. Everything cooks in one pan, which means fewer dishes and maximum flavor. You can easily adjust the spices, swap vegetables, or control how creamy and cheesy you want the final dish to be. It’s simple, filling, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
1 cup yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the uncooked macaroni, beef broth, milk, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 generous servings.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Total time is around 30 minutes.
Variations
You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef for a lighter version. Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables. For a spicier dish, include a pinch of chili powder or crushed red pepper. A blend of cheeses such as mozzarella and cheddar can be used for a different flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture. Stir well before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat with a little milk to keep it creamy.
What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni works best, but small shells or rotini can also be used.
Can I freeze homemade hamburger helper?
It can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta may soften slightly when reheated.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is mild, but you can easily add spices if you prefer heat.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less creamy than when using whole milk.
How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering and make sure there is enough liquid in the pan.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Peas, corn, or carrots are great additions.
What cheese melts best in this dish?
Cheddar melts well and gives classic flavor, but other melting cheeses also work.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives, though the flavor will change.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, stirring often, until it thickens.
Conclusion
This homemade hamburger helper is a reliable, comforting meal that brings together simple ingredients in one satisfying dish. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef, it’s an easy recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation for quick and delicious dinners.
This homemade hamburger helper is a one-pan comfort food classic made with ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. A quick and customizable dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
1 cup yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the uncooked macaroni, beef broth, milk, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
Season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Notes
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
To make it spicier, add chili powder or crushed red pepper.
Add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms.
Use a mix of cheeses for varied flavor and texture.
For a dairy-free version, substitute with plant-based milk and cheese.
