Looking for more easy weeknight dinner recipes? Try my 20 Minute Cashew Chicken, Chicken Pot Pie Pasta or my Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas!
Homemade Hamburger Helper
We all went through that box-food phase as a kid. You know, the blue Macaroni box and all the wonderful different variations of Hamburger Helper. For many of us, these box meals were the first “recipes” we cooked. Personally, I never stopped enjoying these quick and easy meal solutions, but as I got older, I definitely wanted a better flavor profile. So I finally decided it was time to make my very own, all grown up, homemade Hamburger Helper recipe. It tastes just as good (if not better) than the original version, comes together in one skillet, and takes just half an hour! Filled with lean ground beef, tender macaroni noodles, and delicious melty cheese, this traditional family dinner is just as comforting now as it was years ago. Now, it’s just a little healthier and easier to customize! Speaking of customizing — there are so many ways to enjoy this cheeseburger pasta. Change up the noodles, change up the protein, mix and match your add-ins. However you choose to enjoy your homemade hamburger helper, you’ll quickly be reminded of why it was a childhood favorite.
Ingredients
Ground beef: I usually opt for lean ground beef, but you can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if desired. Noodles: I prefer to use macaroni noodles, but any will do! Get creative and use your favorite for an extra personal touch. Tomato paste: This will help to thicken your homemade Hamburger Helper while also adding a nice, meaty flavor. Cheese: I used shredded sharp cheddar cheese plus parmesan for serving. You can leave the cheese out to keep the dish dairy free or dairy light. Other ingredients: You will also need onion, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sour cream, salt and pepper, and hot sauce for his homemade Hamburger Helper recipe.
How to make homemade Hamburger Helper
Tips for making the perfect homemade Hamburger Helper
Cook the beef well: The ground beef is the base of the entire recipe, so you want to make sure you’re correctly browning it. Brown the beef with a good amount of oil and a really hot pan, but be careful not to overcook. When properly browned, your beef should be nice and juicy. Change up the flavors: You may recall that there are many different hamburger helper flavors — the original hamburger macaroni, a lasagna version, and tons of others. This homemade hamburger helper recipe is easy to change up depending on the flavor profile you’re going for. Customize your ingredients: Consider adding diced tomatoes, minced garlic, or even some diced jalapeños for a nice spicy kick. Wanting a more Mexican-style dinner? Add in corn, black beans, and a little bit of salsa. The options really are endless!
Here are more quick and easy dinner recipes to try!
30 Minute Lemon Chicken Turkey Meatballs with Arugula and Mushrooms One Pan Chicken Skillet Easy Chicken Stir Fry Italian BLT Grilled Cheese
