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Homemade Hamburger Helper

USA

The homemade version of a classic American ready-meal, and yes it's worth the extra effort

SUBMITTED BY

Hailey

I’m so excited to share a recipe that’s as American as apple pie (well, almost). It’s a homemade version of the iconic Hamburger Helper, a dish that’s been filling bellies and sparking debates since the ’70s.

Hailey, from Wisconsin introduced me to this one-pot DIY wonder. She swears by the homemade version, ditching the pre-packaged stuff for fresh ingredients and a whole lotta love. As she puts it, it’s “mac and cheese meets spaghetti”. A flavor combo that’s right up my alley.


To make it, brown some ground beef (or turkey), then sauté onions and garlic in the leftover juices. Toss in flour, broth, tomato sauce, spices, and your pasta of choice (Hailey recommends shells). Let it simmer until the pasta is tender. Then stir in some heavy cream and a mountain of cheddar cheese. Bam! Dinner is served.


This dish is more than just a meal. It’s classic comfort and perfect for busy weeknights. Hailey’s homemade version takes this classic to the next level, with fresh flavors. It’s proof that even the simplest dishes can be elevated with a little love and creativity. This nostalgic American dish is bound to leave you feeling warm, fuzzy, and satisfied.

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Homemade Hamburger Helper

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Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef, or ground turkey
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 2 Tbsp flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth, or chicken broth
  • 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp seasoned salt
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 8 oz small pasta shells or elbows
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half and half
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese off the block preferred
  • salt & pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a large sauté pan with a lid, brown the ground meat over medium high heat. Remove cooked ground meat from pan and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
  • Lower the heat to medium and add the onion. Cook the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic for the last 30 seconds.
  • Add the flour and stir to cook for about 1 minute, slowly stir in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Pour in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder and pasta, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, cover with lid and cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
  • Add in the cream and cheese and stir until all the cheese melted. Add back in ground beef, cook for 2 to 3 minutes more to re-heat ground beef.
  • Serve warm!

Notes

Recipe inspired by The Novice Chef
Course: Dinner
Region: North America
Keyword: Crowd-pleaser

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