Hamburger Helper

As a busy mom, there are days when you just need a quick and easy dinner solution that’s both comforting and satisfying. That’s where Homemade Hamburger Helper comes in – a delicious and nostalgic dish that brings back memories of cozy family meals.

Inspired by the classic boxed version, this from-scratch recipe is even better, allowing you to control the ingredients and create a wholesome, homemade meal in no time.

This recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you’re short on time but still want to serve a nutritious and tasty meal. With a few simple, pantry-staple ingredients, you’ll create a savory, cheesy, and satisfying one-pot dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.

The beauty of this Homemade Hamburger Helper lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to your family’s preferences by adding different cheeses, spices, or even vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ground beef or turkey that you have in your fridge.

One of the key aspects that sets this recipe apart from the boxed version is the use of real, wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about feeding your family. By choosing whole grain pasta and opting for lean ground meat, you’ll create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

Once you’ve prepared your Homemade Hamburger Helper, you’ll want to think about what dishes it pairs well with. A crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables are always a hit, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a warm dinner roll.

There’s something so satisfying about recreating a classic, nostalgic meal from scratch, and this Homemade Hamburger Helper is no exception. By taking the time to prepare this simple, comforting dish, you’ll not only be creating a delicious dinner but also making memories that your family will cherish for years to come.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe a try and see just how easy it is to bring a taste of nostalgia to your dinner table tonight!

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Course: Main CourseCuisine: American

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

A quick, easy, and comforting homemade alternative to the classic boxed Hamburger Helper.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 2 cups uncooked whole grain pasta

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 cups milk

• 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
• Add the uncooked pasta, milk, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.
• Stir in the cooked ground beef, grated cheddar cheese, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.

Notes

• Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Homemade Hamburger Helper pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile option for any weeknight meal. For a complete, balanced dinner, serve it alongside a crisp, fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider adding a side of warm, buttered dinner rolls or garlic bread to sop up any leftover sauce.

For a fun twist, try serving your Homemade Hamburger Helper in a bread bowl or over a baked potato. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, why not pair it with a glass of your favorite red wine or a cold beer? Whatever you choose, your friends and family are sure to love this comforting, homemade version of a classic favorite.