Homemade Hamburger Helper: Easy & Delicious Recipe

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Craving a comforting, cheesy, and beefy dish but want to skip the processed ingredients? This homemade hamburger helper recipe is your answer! It’s quick, easy, and far more delicious than the boxed version. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time. Let's dive into how to make this classic dish from scratch.

Why Make Homemade Hamburger Helper?

  • Healthier Ingredients: Control the sodium and eliminate preservatives.
  • Better Taste: Fresh ingredients make a world of difference.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings and add-ins to suit your taste.
  • Budget-Friendly: Often cheaper than buying the boxed version.

What You'll Need

Here's a list of the essential ingredients for your homemade hamburger helper:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a hearty and flavorful homemade hamburger helper: — UMass Player Injury: Latest Updates And Team Impact

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Incorporate Macaroni: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well.
  5. Simmer Until Pasta is Cooked: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually add about 1/2 cup of the hot liquid from the skillet to the butter-flour mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. This is called a roux and will help thicken the sauce.
  7. Combine and Melt Cheese: Pour the cheese sauce into the skillet with the beef and macaroni. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Season to Taste: Add Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce, if desired. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
  • Add Vegetables: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or chopped bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
  • Make it Creamier: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for extra richness.
  • Try Different Ground Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade hamburger helper is a complete meal on its own, but here are some side dishes that complement it well:

  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
  • Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots.

The Bottom Line

Making homemade hamburger helper is not only easy but also a healthier and tastier alternative to the boxed version. With simple ingredients and customizable options, this recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Give it a try and discover why homemade is always better! Want more easy dinner recipes? Check out our other articles for more inspiration. [Internal Link: Easy Dinner Recipes] — Nail Reformation: The Ultimate Press-On Nails Guide

CTA: Share your version of this homemade hamburger helper using #HomemadeHamburgerHelper! — Knicks Vs 76ers: Epic Showdown Preview & Predictions