Description
This Best Hamburger Helper recipe is creamy, cheesy, and made in one pan for the ultimate quick and comforting dinner. A healthier homemade version that’s better than the box!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups short pasta (rigatoni, penne, or elbow)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for cooking)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef.
2. Add diced onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in beef broth and milk. Stir in uncooked pasta.
5. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. When pasta is tender, reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until melted.
7. Add shredded cheddar, stirring until smooth and creamy.
8. Turn off heat, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Add veggies like peas, spinach, or bell pepper for extra nutrition. Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. Store leftovers up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 790
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
- Cholesterol: 100