Welcome to your new favorite homemade dish that brings comfort to your kitchen in no time. Our homemade hamburger helper is a delicious twist on the classic boxed meal, perfect for those looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner option. Skip the preservatives found in store-bought options and enjoy a fresher, tastier meal made entirely from scratch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- For a richer flavor, substitute beef broth with heavy cream.
- To make this vegetarian, use plant-based meat substitutes and vegetable broth.
- Add your favorite vegetables like peas or bell peppers to increase nutritional content.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, substitute the beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- How can I thicken the sauce? If the mixture is too runny, mix a small teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the skillet, cooking for a few minutes until thickened.
- What other cheese can I use? You can replace cheddar with your choice of cheese, like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for varied flavors.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and check labels on your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free too.
- ground beef
- small onion
- garlic
- beef broth
- milk
- elbow macaroni
- paprika
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
- shredded cheddar cheese
- fresh parsley
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring well to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the elbow macaroni, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir to combine. Cook until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until melted and well combined.
How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it into small pieces using a wooden spoon, allowing for even cooking. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy end result.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
With the beef still in the skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue to sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, another 3-4 minutes. This will infuse the beef with aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Step 3: Mix in Broth and Milk
Pour the beef broth and milk into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the beef and aromatics. The mixture should start to simmer after a few minutes of gentle heat. These liquids will help cook your pasta and create a rich, flavorful sauce that binds everything together.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Seasonings
Introduce the elbow macaroni, paprika, and garlic powder into the broth mixture. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is submerged. Add salt and pepper as preferred. Let the mixture cook until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Let it melt into a gooey finish, stirring occasionally to evenly distribute throughout. The cheese will add creamy richness that transforms this dish into a delectable comfort food.
How to Serve Homemade Hamburger Helper
Serve your homemade hamburger helper hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Pair it with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal that keeps the comfort factor high without compromising on nutritional value.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Protein-Packed Powerhouse: High Protein Version
Elevate your homemade hamburger helper by boosting its protein content! Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and add a can of black beans or lentils for an extra burst of protein. Incorporating quinoa as an alternative to pasta can offer a complete protein source, making this dish not only hearty but also suitable for muscle-building diets.
Additionally, you can mix in a scoop of protein powder; just ensure it’s unflavored to maintain the classic taste. This option makes a wholesome post-workout meal that refuels your energy and aids in muscle recovery.
Low-Carb Delight: Low Carb Variation
Craving a carb-conscious take on this classic? Substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. These low-carb alternatives are perfect for those following a keto or paleo diet. Opting for almond flour and cream cheese can help thicken your sauce while keeping your carbohydrate intake in check.
Furthermore, trading out the standard milk for coconut milk offers a rich, creamy consistency that complements the flavors beautifully. By tweaking the ingredients gently, you can enjoy all the indulgence of this dish without the carb overload.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover homemade hamburger helper in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if necessary to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze portions in separate airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Wrap Up Your Culinary Adventure With Homemade Hamburger Helper
This homemade hamburger helper is the perfect mix of convenience and homemade comfort food. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also customizable to fit any dietary preference or lifestyle. We invite you to share this recipe with friends and family or leave a comment below with your experiences trying it out!
