Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe: Cheesy and Comforting
Classic Homemade Hamburger Helper with cheesy, comforting flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch optional
- Optional: Chopped parsley extra cheese
- Suggested Pairings: Iced tea sparkling water
Cook beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet until browned; drain fat.
Add paprika, salt, and pepper; cook 1 min.
Stir in broth, milk, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire; add cornstarch slurry if desired.
Taste and adjust the sauce.
Add macaroni; simmer 8–10 min until tender.
Stir in cheese; serve in a white ceramic dish with parsley, cheese, green beans, or tea.
- Use freshly grated cheese for smooth melting.
- Store in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Try a vegan or taco variation.
- Pair with a side salad.