HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER
This homemade hamburger helper is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Made with ground beef, pasta, and a savory sauce, it’s a quick, comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or family-friendly lunches.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups uncooked pasta elbows, rotini, or shells
- 2 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce optional
Instructions
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion and garlic until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Liquids: Stir in milk, beef broth, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Pasta: Add uncooked pasta to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
- Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Serve warm, optionally garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Can be prepared a day in advance and reheated on the stove or microwave.
- Customizing Flavor: Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.