Homemade Hamburger Helper

This homemade hamburger helper is seasoned ground beef, noodles and cheese, all cooked together in a creamy tomato sauce. An easy one pot meal that's a big hit with both kids and adults!

Course Main

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings

Calories 589kcal

Author Sara Welch

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef I use 90% lean
1/2 cup onion finely diced
2 teaspoons garlic minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika can also use regular paprika
3 cups beef broth
15 ounce can tomato sauce
8 ounces macaroni noodles
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the beef and break up into small pieces with a spatula.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the onion and cook for another 4 minutes or until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the salt, pepper and paprika. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce and macaroni. Stir, then bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium low.
Cover the pot, then cook for 8-10 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. If the pasta is not tender and the liquid has been absorbed, you can add a little more beef broth as needed.
Uncover the pot. Stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
Add the cheese to the pot. Cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly, until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with parsley, then serve.

Notes

I use 90% lean ground beef as it has plenty of flavor without a lot of grease. If you use beef with a higher fat content, you'll want to drain off any excess grease after you cook the meat.
If the pasta isn't cooked through but the liquid is mostly absorbed, feel free to add a little more beef broth as needed.
This dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don't recommend freezing this meal as the pasta can become very soft when thawed.

Nutrition