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Homemade Hamburger Helper 2025 12 29 185205 150x150 1

Homemade Hamburger Helper

A quick, comforting dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese, perfect for weeknight family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste heaping
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add the beef and onions to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes.
  2. Spoon out excess fat and stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder.
  3. Gradually add the beef broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Toss in the elbow macaroni and let it cook uncovered on a rapid simmer for 13-15 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes.
  5. Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Allow the dish to sit for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

This dish can be customized by adding veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or by using different cheeses.