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homemade hamburger helper in a black skillet with chives on top.
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5 from 3 votes

Homemade Hamburger Helper

This homemade hamburger helper recipe is a blend of macaroni and ground beef in a creamy cheese sauce. The ultimate weeknight meal made in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Course: Entree
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6
Calories: 828kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese grated
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 onion finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • chives, for garnishing optional

Instructions

  • Start by breaking up and browning the ground beef completely over medium-high heat. This should take about 5-8 minutes. 
  • Add the spices, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and onions. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes. 
  • Stir in the fresh garlic and cook for 20 seconds. Add the beef broth and whole milk. Let it come to a simmer. 
  • Once it comes to a simmer, add the macaroni, cover, and cook for 6 minutes while stirring frequently. 
  • Add the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well, cover, and cook for 1 minute. 
  • Check for seasoning, garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired, and enjoy warm! 

Notes

  • If your kids are picky eaters and don't like onions, feel free to grate the onions instead or simply omit them and add onion powder instead.
  • If you want it extra creamy, add more beef broth and whole milk.

Nutrition

Calories: 828kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 46g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 146mg | Sodium: 663mg | Potassium: 673mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1303IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 439mg | Iron: 3mg