Homemade Hamburger Helper: Easy Skillet Dinner (Print Version)
Make classic Hamburger Helper at home! This easy one-pot ground beef and pasta skillet meal is a family-friendly weeknight dinner solution.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
02 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ The Creamy & Cheesy Embrace
04 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
05 -
2 cups beef broth, low sodium
06 -
1 cup milk (2% or whole)
07 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
08 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
→ The Pasta & Flavor Boosters
09 -
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
10 -
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
11 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
12 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
13 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown 1 lb lean ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat. Add 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
02 -
Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen the flavor.
03 -
Pour in 2 cups low sodium beef broth and 1 cup milk. Add 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. This is key for your Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe.
04 -
In a small bowl, whisk 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to create a slurry. Stir this cornstarch slurry into the simmering mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly to your desired consistency.
05 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This creates the rich, cheesy embrace for your Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe.
06 -
Season the Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For a milder flavor, substitute sharp cheddar with mild cheddar or Colby Jack cheese.
02 -
Store any leftover Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a handful of frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added vegetables.
04 -
Serve this comforting dish with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Measuring cups and spoons
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Wooden spoon or spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 637 kcal
Total Fat: 31 g
Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
Protein: 46 g