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Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe with Cheesy Pasta
Why Make This Recipe
Homemade Hamburger Helper is a delicious and comforting dish that satisfies your cravings for cheesy pasta and ground beef. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients and it’s a crowd-pleaser for the whole family!
How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 2 cups of elbow macaroni
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the beef broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Homemade Hamburger Helper
You can serve this hearty dish on its own, or pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes a great comfort food for a family dinner or casual get-togethers with friends.
How to Store Homemade Hamburger Helper
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Tips to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
- For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or chopped onions when browning the beef.
- You can use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
- Adjust the amount of seasonings based on your taste preference.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add in your favorite veggies like spinach, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta you like, such as penne or shells, instead of elbow macaroni.
2. Is it possible to make this dish with low-fat ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese to make a lighter version.
3. How can I spice it up?
For a spicier kick, try adding a teaspoon of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the recipe.
Homemade Hamburger Helper
A quick and hearty dish featuring cheesy pasta and ground beef, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Can use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Can substitute with any short pasta, such as penne or shells.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to use different types of cheese.
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk Low-fat milk can be used for a lighter version.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the beef broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Cooking
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Consider adding diced bell peppers or chopped onions for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
