Homemade Hamburger Helper is a true kid-friendly, 30-minute meal that everyone will love. It’s cheesy, creamy, and hearty – the perfect thing when hungry bellies need something comforting. And not only is the recipe delicious and a true crowd-pleaser, its simple to make. No need to ever buy the stuff in the box again. Promise.
Let’s get started!
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homemade hamburger helper ingredients
- Ground Beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- All-Purpose Seasoning
- Pasta (I’m using cavatappi, but any short cut pasta will work!)
- Tomato Paste
- Hidden Veggies – Mushrooms, Zucchini, Broccoli, Cauliflower
- Broth
- Whole Milk
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Kosher Salt
let’s make homemade hamburger helper
In a large pot or braiser, cook ground beef and onion until meat is browned and cooked through. Season with all-purpose seasoning and tomato paste, cooking for another minute or so to combine the flavors.
Add zucchini and pasta, tossing to combine. Add broth and milk. Bring mixture to a low boil and cook until pasta is cooked to just tender. This will take approximately 10 or so depending on what type of pasta you use. Stir this often to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the braiser or pot.
After the pasta is cooked to al dente, turn heat down and sprinkle cheese in mixture, stirring until creamy. This should just take a few more minutes.
Now, you have the best one-pot homemade hamburger helper ever. With hidden veggies the kids won’t notice. And, not a processed box of anything anywhere around!
frequently asked questions
You can use whatever ground meat your prefer. Chicken, turkey, or even pork would be fantastic. If you would like to go the vegetarian route, throw in some tofu crumbles!
If you need a gluten-free recipe, simply substitute for your favorite gluten-free pasta. There is nothing in the remaining mixture that would be of any concern for that dietary requirement.
For those needing a dairy free version, you can use your favorite non-dairy milk and cheese. There are many, many options out there. Just use what you like!
One of the beauties of this hamburger helper recipe, aside from it being easy, quick, and one-pot, are that you can easily hide a multitude of veggies. I do this all the time just to sneak a little more nutrition into their busy little bodies and they are none the wiser!
Other veggies to consider:
-Mushrooms
-Cauliflower
-Broccoli
-Kale/Spinach
Basically, any veggie that has a relatively mild flavor after cooking and that can be finely chopped would be a great addition!
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Kitchen Essentials
Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 med onion, diced
- 1 zucchini, shredded I use a box grater
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 lb short cut pasta I used cavatappi
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth use whatever you have on hand
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- kosher salt
- fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot or braiser, cook ground beef and onion until meat is browned and cooked through. Season with all-purpose seasoning and add tomato paste, cooking for another minute or so to combine flavors.
- Add zucchini and pasta, tossing to combine. Add broth and milk. Bring mixture to a low boil and cook until pasta is cooked to just tender. Stir often.
- Turn heat down and sprinkle cheese into mixture, stirring until cheese is melted and mixture is creamy. This should just take a few more minutes.
- Divide into serving bowls and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Thank you!
am so incredibly happy that you are here! I hope you try my Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe and fall in love with it. If you make this recipe, please share and tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok! And, please leave a comment or review. I absolutely love seeing each and every one of your kitchen masterpieces. And, as always, if you ever have any questions about any of my recipes, please don’t hesitate to contact me!
Happy Cooking!
–Rufus
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If you guys make this Homemade Hamburger Helper, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I absolutely love to hear from you all and always do my best to respond to each and every one of your comments!
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