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Healthier Homemade Hamburger Helper – No Box Needed!


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  • Author: Melany
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

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