Description
This creamy homemade Hamburger Helper is a comforting one-skillet meal that's easy to prepare in just 35 minutes. Featuring lean ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
- ½ yellow onion, finely minced (about 1 cup)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 12 oz macaroni (about 2 ½ cups)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Liquids & Sauces
- 2 cups hot water
- 2 cups milk (any kind)
- ¼ cup tomato paste (about 4 oz)
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (to make a slurry)
Seasonings
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Finely mince the yellow onion and garlic cloves. Set aside all ingredients within reach to streamline the cooking process.
- Cook Ground Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess grease if needed. Add the minced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the hot water, milk, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and salt. Stir thoroughly to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the macaroni. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Simmer and Cook Pasta: Let the mixture simmer gently for approximately 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry to recombine and slowly add it to the skillet. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich creamy texture.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy homemade Hamburger Helper!
Notes
- Using lean ground beef reduces excess grease and keeps the dish light.
- Any type of milk can be used; whole milk will make the dish creamier.
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent macaroni from sticking and burning.
- Cornstarch slurry is key to achieving that perfect creamy sauce—don’t skip it.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of smoked paprika if desired.
