Homemade Hamburger Helper: Easy Recipe

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Craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish but want to skip the processed ingredients? This homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is your answer! It’s quick, easy, and tastes even better than the boxed version. Plus, you control exactly what goes into it. Let's dive in!

Why Make Homemade Hamburger Helper?

  • Healthier: Avoid artificial flavors, preservatives, and excessive sodium.
  • Customizable: Adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your liking.
  • Budget-Friendly: Often cheaper than buying the pre-made boxes.
  • Tastes Better: Fresh ingredients make a world of difference.

What You'll Need

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Incorporate Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
  5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
  6. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. This prevents lumps in your sauce.
  7. Add Cheese Sauce: Pour the milk mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Stir in Cheese and Seasonings: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Tips and Variations

  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
  • Add veggies: Mix in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrients.
  • Use different meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
  • Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses.
  • Make it creamy: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for extra creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade Hamburger Helper as a main dish. It's great on its own, but you can also pair it with: — Agricultural Property Relief: A Complete Guide

  • A side salad
  • Garlic bread
  • Steamed vegetables

Get Creative with Your Hamburger Helper

This recipe is a fantastic base, so don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature version. You can even try baking it in a casserole dish for a cheesy baked pasta! Get creative and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Hamburger Helper. — Deltarune: What Crucial Element Are Fans Overlooking?

Ready to ditch the box and make your own amazing Hamburger Helper? Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! — Brain Dead Clothing: Where Culture Meets Counter-Culture