Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can easily be substituted for ground beef. Both options work well in this recipe and provide a leaner alternative without compromising flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make Homemade Hamburger Helper gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch. Just whisk 2 teaspoons of cornstarch into 1 tablespoon of water, then stir it into the skillet to thicken the sauce.

How do I reheat leftovers without losing creaminess?

To reheat leftovers, add a splash of heavy cream or broth to restore the creamy texture. Heat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Can I make Homemade Hamburger Helper in an Instant Pot?

Yes! For an Instant Pot version of Homemade Hamburger Helper, simply brown the meat and sauté the onion and garlic in the Instant Pot. Then, add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Allow for a quick release, then stir in the cheese and cream.

Homemade Hamburger Helper – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 8 oz small pasta shells (or small elbow pasta); ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Description

Homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick, creamy, and satisfying one-pot meal made with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich cheese sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a family favorite that brings the comforting flavors of the boxed version but with a fresher, more flavorful twist.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
8 oz small pasta shells (or small elbow pasta)
½ 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 ground beef from pan and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
Lower the heat to medium and sauté the diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic for the last 30 seconds.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
Add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. If the noodles are not cooked through, add an extra ¼ to ½ cup broth as needed.
Add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 more minutes to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with cornstarch.
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a tablespoon of sour cream before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

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

Nutrition

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