Print

Creamy One-Pot Hamburger Helper from Scratch

creamy one-pot hamburger helper - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy homemade version of hamburger helper made in one pot with real ingredients, creamy sauce, and tender pasta. Perfect for comforting family dinners without processed mixes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape (about 7 oz)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies

Instructions

  1. Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains, about 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  3. Push the beef and onions to one side of the pan. Add butter to the empty side and let it melt. Sprinkle flour over the butter and stir constantly to combine, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the roux is golden and nutty.
  4. Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add milk and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth and beginning to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add dry elbow macaroni directly into the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover with lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens, about 10-12 minutes. Add splash of broth or milk if sauce gets too thick before pasta is done.
  6. Remove lid and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or crushed red pepper flakes.

Notes

Keep heat moderate during pasta cooking to prevent milk from curdling or sauce from scorching. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking. Adjust liquid as needed to maintain sauce consistency. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, hamburger helper, homemade, creamy, easy dinner, ground beef, pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/creamy-one-pot-hamburger-helper-from-scratch-easy-homemade-recipe/