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Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

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4.1 from 12 reviews

This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick and comforting one-pot meal featuring seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and melted cheddar cheese, all simmered in a flavorful tomato and beef broth sauce. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef and onions: Add the ground beef and chopped onions to a soup pot and cook over medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes. Break up the meat with a spoon while cooking. If a lot of excess fat accumulates, remove most of it with a spoon.
  2. Add seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder until well combined with the beef mixture.
  3. Add broth and bring to boil: Pour in the beef broth and increase the heat to high. Once the mixture starts boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni.
  4. Simmer the pasta: Reduce the heat to medium to maintain a rapid simmer. Cook uncovered for about 13-15 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Grate the cheese: While the pasta cooks, grate 2 cups of fresh cheddar cheese to save prep time.
  6. Finish with cheese and seasoning: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to thicken and allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and make the dish healthier.
  • You can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini if desired.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce when adding the chili powder.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of milk or cream with the cheese.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stove or microwave.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/homemade-hamburger-helper-recipe-3/