1. Can I make this homemade hamburger helper gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta and replacing the all-purpose flour with cornstarch. Just keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may need a little extra cooking time and broth to achieve the desired tenderness.

2. How can I make this recipe healthier?

To lighten up the dish, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, swap heavy cream with evaporated milk or half-and-half, and sneak in some vegetables like spinach, peas, or finely diced carrots for added nutrition.

3. What should I do if the pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s fully cooked?

If your pasta isn’t tender but the sauce is drying out, simply add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of broth and continue simmering. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Description

This easy homemade hamburger helper is a creamy, cheesy, one-pot meal made with ground beef and pasta, perfect for quick and healthy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
8 oz small pasta shells (or small elbow pasta)
1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

In a large sauté pan with a lid, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Remove cooked beef and set aside, leaving 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for the last 30 seconds.
Add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring to create a smooth mixture. Bring to a boil.
Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and dry pasta. Mix well, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If pasta isn’t fully cooked and liquid is low, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup extra broth as needed. Once pasta is tender, reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted.
Add cooked ground beef back to the pan and heat through for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture.
Add veggies like spinach, peas, or carrots to increase nutritional value.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to revive creaminess.
For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or hot Rotel tomatoes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 738
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 1261mg
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0.4g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 49g
Cholesterol: 160mg