Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While small shells or elbows are traditional, any small pasta shape with nooks and crannies works well. Rotini, farfalle, or even penne are great alternatives. Just adjust cooking time accordingly as larger pasta shapes may need an extra minute or two.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe converts beautifully to gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta and replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use 1 tablespoon cornstarch instead of 2 tablespoons flour). Be sure to check your broth and seasonings for hidden gluten as well.

Can I make this ahead for a busy weeknight?

Yes! You have two options: either prepare the entire dish and refrigerate (it reheats wonderfully), or brown the meat with onions and garlic ahead of time. On serving day, continue with the recipe from the flour step. Having the meat mixture ready cuts your active cooking time in half.

Why is my sauce grainy instead of smooth?

This usually happens when cheese is added to too hot a mixture or when it's added all at once. To prevent this, remove the pan from heat for a minute before adding cheese, and add it gradually, stirring constantly. Using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged also helps create a smoother sauce.

Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

Description

This homemade hamburger helper is a quick, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender pasta, savory ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and a flavorful blend of seasonings. It’s a family-friendly dinner that’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy a nostalgic classic with fresher ingredients and a richer, cheesier sauce.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

- 1 pound lean ground beef, or ground turkey
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth, or chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 oz small pasta shells, or small elbow pasta
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Creamy Cheese Sauce

1/2 cup heavy cream, or half and half
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Add Flour and Seasonings: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove any raw flour taste. Stir in the Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, mixing well to distribute the spices.
Add Sauce and Simmer: Pour in the beef or chicken broth and the tomato sauce. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
Add Pasta and Cook: Add the uncooked pasta shells. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Add Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is thoroughly melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Spoon the creamy hamburger helper into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey and half and half.
Use any small pasta shape, but adjust cooking time as needed.
Add extra vegetables like bell pepper or spinach for more nutrition.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can add a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 620
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1100mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 37g
Cholesterol: 135mg