Homemade Hamburger Helper: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Homemade Hamburger Helper
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe. With its creamy sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and savory ground beef, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for a cozy night in!
A Personal Story Behind My Homemade Hamburger Helper Journey
Growing up, Hamburger Helper was a go-to meal in my home. It was a dish that brought everyone together, with its hearty flavors and comforting textures. As I grew older, I appreciated the ease of making this meal and the joy it brought to my family. Now, I’m excited to share my homemade version that’s not only healthier but also packed with flavor!
What Makes This Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it uses extra lean ground beef, ensuring a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The combination of spices, like chili powder and garlic powder, infuses the dish with a depth of flavor that you won’t find in the store-bought versions. Plus, the freshly grated cheddar cheese adds a rich creaminess that makes this dish irresistibly comforting.
The Full Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a soup pot, cook the ground beef and onions over medium-high heat until the beef is browned (about 7-10 minutes), breaking up the meat with a spoon. Remove excess fat if needed. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef for even cooking.
- Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder, mixing well to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Add the macaroni. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer and cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 13-15 minutes), stirring occasionally. Tip: Keep an eye on the pot to ensure it doesn’t boil over.
- While the macaroni is cooking, grate the cheese for a fresh taste.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavors before serving. Tip: Adding cheese off the heat will help it melt perfectly without becoming tough.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Homemade Hamburger Helper
This dish is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further! Consider topping it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. You can also customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrition. Want some spice? Add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes!
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Hamburger Helper
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
Enjoy this comforting and cheesy beef macaroni dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in!
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 4
Homemade Hamburger Helper
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 0.5 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a soup pot, cook the ground beef and onions over medium-high heat until the beef is browned (about 7-10 minutes), breaking up the meat with a spoon. Remove excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder, mixing well to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Add the macaroni.
- Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer and cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 13-15 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- While the macaroni is cooking, grate the cheese for a fresh taste.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.