What is the easiest Hamburger Helper recipe to make at home?

The easiest version is made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, beef broth, milk, and cheddar cheese. Everything cooks in one skillet, keeping cleanup simple.

Can I make Hamburger Helper from scratch without the box mix?

Yes! Just combine pasta, broth, milk, seasonings, and cheese with cooked ground beef. Using pantry spices like garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder replaces the flavor packet.

How do you make Hamburger Helper creamy and flavorful?

The secret is a balance of broth and milk, plus plenty of cheese. Stirring in cream cheese or sour cream at the end adds extra richness and a silky texture.

What are the best toppings for homemade Hamburger Helper?

Fresh parsley, extra shredded cheese, or even crushed crackers add flavor and texture. Some people also like a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat.

How long does it take to cook Hamburger Helper on the stove?

From start to finish, about 25–30 minutes. Browning the beef takes 5–7 minutes, and the pasta simmers in the broth and milk for another 15 minutes until tender.

Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe : 5 Easy Steps to Make

Name: Hamburger Helper Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni (or other small pasta); 3 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup milk or cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Description

This homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting one-pot meal made from scratch in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving nostalgic flavors without the box.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
3 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup milk or cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the beef broth and pasta, then bring to a simmer.
Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Reduce heat to low, stir in milk or cream, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes to create a creamy sauce.
Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, use heavy cream or stir in a spoonful of sour cream at the end. Reserve a little pasta water if you prefer a looser sauce.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: One Pot
Cuisine: American