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Homemade Hamburger Helper

Homemade Hamburger Helper is a simple, tasty, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Control the ingredients and create a healthier, budget-friendly dish that the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni Feel free to use different pasta shapes.
  • 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese You can substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Adjust seasoning as desired.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Add the beef and onions to a soup pot. Cook over medium-high heat until the beef has browned, about 7 to 10 minutes. Break the meat up with your spoon as you cook.
  2. If there’s a lot of excess fat, spoon most of it out. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and chili powder.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and turn the heat to high. When it starts boiling, add the macaroni.
  4. Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer. Cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 13 to 15 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes to keep it from sticking.
  5. While cooking, grate the cheese. When the pasta is done, take the pot off the heat and stir in the cheese.
  6. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. You can prepare the beef and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready.