Description
Recreate the creamy, cheesy goodness of your childhood favorite with this healthier homemade hamburger helper. Made with real ingredients, this one-pot meal is quick, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or comforting dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken 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 elbow pasta
- ½ cup heavy cream or half and half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Remove the beef from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons of grease.
-
Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Lower the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Create the Sauce Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat evenly.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
-
Add Seasonings and Pasta
- Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Add the pasta, stirring to combine evenly.
-
Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender
- Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- If the mixture becomes too dry before the pasta is cooked, add ¼–½ cup of broth.
-
Add Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
-
Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American