Whip Up the Best Homemade Hamburger Helper in No Time!

homemade hamburger helper

Making homemade hamburger helper is easier than you think! With this recipe, you can create a healthier version of this beloved comfort food dish in no time.

This healthier twist on the classic comfort food is made with real ingredients and delivers serious flavor. To make this one-pot meal, you’ll need ground beef, onion, garlic, tomato paste, spices, elbow macaroni, beef broth, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Simply sauté the onion and garlic, brown the ground beef, add the spices and tomato paste, then pour in the broth and milk. Cook the pasta in the mixture until tender, then stir in the cheese. Serve and enjoy! This homemade version is a great option for busy weeknights and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later.

Key Takeaways:

  • Creating a homemade hamburger helper is quick and easy.
  • You can make a healthier version by using real ingredients.
  • This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The recipe can be customized with different variations and ingredients.
  • Homemade hamburger helper can be stored for later use.

Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe and Variations

To make homemade hamburger helper, you’ll need a few key ingredients and some simple techniques. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to guide you through the process:

  1. Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need:
    • 1 pound of ground beef
    • 1 small onion, diced
    • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
    • 1 teaspoon of paprika
    • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
    • 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
    • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
    • 2 cups of elbow macaroni
    • 3 cups of beef broth
    • 1 cup of milk
    • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  2. In a large skillet or pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, basil, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and milk, and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
  7. Serve your homemade hamburger helper hot and enjoy!

Now that you have the basic recipe down, feel free to get creative with variations:

  1. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
  2. Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile.
  3. Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
  4. For a creamier version, substitute some of the beef broth with heavy cream or sour cream.

With these variations, you can make homemade hamburger helper without preservatives and tailor it to your taste preferences. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love!

Classic Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Ingredients Instructions
1 pound ground beef 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
1 small onion, diced 2. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Break it up into small pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon.
2 cloves garlic, minced 3. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, basil, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
2 tablespoons tomato paste 4. Pour in beef broth and milk. Bring to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
1 teaspoon paprika 5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve hot.
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups elbow macaroni
3 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

homemade hamburger helper without preservatives

Conclusion

Homemade hamburger helper is a fantastic option for a quick and delicious meal. By making it yourself, you can control the ingredients and create a dish that suits your taste preferences perfectly. So, grab your apron and give this homemade hamburger helper recipe a try today!

Whip up the best homemade hamburger helper in no time with this easy recipe! This healthier twist on the classic comfort food is made with real ingredients and delivers serious flavor. To make this one-pot meal, you’ll need ground beef, onion, garlic, tomato paste, spices, elbow macaroni, beef broth, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Simply sauté the onion and garlic, brown the ground beef, add the spices and tomato paste, then pour in the broth and milk. Cook the pasta in the mixture until tender, then stir in the cheese. Serve and enjoy!

This homemade version is a great option for busy weeknights and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later. The cheesy goodness of this homemade hamburger helper will surely satisfy your cravings. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s no wonder why so many people consider homemade hamburger helper the best. So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with your loved ones!

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as turkey tends to cook faster than beef.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Of course! While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for hamburger helper, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Penne, rotini, or even egg noodles would work well in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with your favorite meat substitute or additional vegetables. The rest of the recipe remains the same, and you’ll still end up with a delicious and flavorful dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This homemade hamburger helper is freezer-friendly. Just let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add additional vegetables to this hamburger helper recipe. Peas, carrots, corn, or bell peppers would all make tasty and nutritious additions.

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