Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Hey y'all! If you're craving comfort food that’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, this Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Forget the boxed stuff—this version is creamy, cheesy, and made with real ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or cozy nights in. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

One-pot meal for super easy cleanup and minimal fuss.
Creamy, cheesy sauce with tender pasta and juicy beef in every bite.
Kid-approved and customizable for picky eaters or dietary needs.
No artificial ingredients—just simple pantry staples.
Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions: How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until mostly browned—about 3-4 minutes.
Add diced onion and cook for 2 more minutes until the onion is soft, then stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Drain excess fat as needed.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Add tomato paste, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and coat the beef mixture.
Pour in the beef broth and milk, then gently stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.

Step 3: Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Make it Cheesy & Creamy

Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Stir well until the cheese melts into a velvety, creamy sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Notes & Helpful Cooking Tips

Use freshly grated cheddar for the best melting and texture—bagged pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly (Why freshly grated cheese is best).
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving.
For added nutrition, throw in a handful of spinach or frozen peas in the last few minutes of cooking—see more veggie ideas at Eat Right.

Variations: Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe Tweaks

Turkey Helper: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
Spicy Chili Mac: Add ½ teaspoon chili powder and a pinch of crushed red pepper, then top with chopped green onions.
Vegetarian: Use plant-based ground "meat" and swap beef broth for veggie broth.

Required Equipment for Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Large deep skillet with lid (at least 12-inch recommended)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Box grater (if shredding cheese fresh)

Storage Instructions for Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth and microwave gently, stirring halfway through, until hot and creamy.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette.
Pair with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy sauce.
Add a side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

For richer flavor, brown the beef well, letting it develop a deep, caramelized crust (How to brown beef perfectly).
Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even texture.
Let the skillet sit off the heat for 3-5 minutes after adding cheese for ultra-creamy results.