Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion (finely diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 3 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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If you’re craving something cheesy and comforting, this Homemade Hamburger Helper is just what you need! With real ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and fresh cheeses, it’s loaded with flavor and super easy to make in just one pot. Ditch the box and enjoy this homemade version that’s ready in 30 minutes! Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds!

Are you looking for more 30-minute meals? Try our Mexican Rice & Beef, Beef Hash, or Beef Taco Meat.

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This easy meal is one that the entire family loves! My kids have never had Hamburger Helper from a box mix. It wasn’t one of my childhood favorites—I just didn’t find it that good. But I really enjoy this homemade version, and my kids absolutely love it!

Made with simple ingredients, this homemade version of Hamburger Helper is a comforting meal that brings everyone to the dinner table. Unlike the boxed stuff, this cheesy hamburger helper is packed with flavor and ready in no time, making it a great recipe for busy nights when you need something quick and satisfying.

This one-pot meal is not only delicious but also cuts down on cleanup, with fewer dishes to wash afterward. It’s an easy homemade hamburger helper recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a large family or looking for leftovers the next day, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that tastes even better than the store-bought version. The cheesy flavor and creamy sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds!

What you’ll love about this Hamburger Helper recipe:

ONE-POT WONDER – This entire meal is made in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
QUICK & EASY – Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast and satisfying.
COMFORT FOOD CLASSIC – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is pure comfort food that the whole family will love!

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this amazing Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe:

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Elbow macaroni
Beef broth
Milk
Cheddar cheese
Monterey Jack cheese
Cream cheese
Mustard powder
Paprika
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper

INGREDIENT NOTES:

Garlic: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you could omit the garlic powder. The way the recipe is written it gives a well balanced flavor and doesn’t have a overwhelming garlic taste.
Cheese: I love using a trio of cheeses. It gives the perfect flavor!

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER STEP-BY-STEP:

Check out the quick visual guides below. For full instructions and ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the end.

STEP 1: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the pound of ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat if necessary.

STEP 2: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

STEP 3: Add uncooked macaroni, beef broth, milk, mustard powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.

STEP 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

STEP 5: Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and cream cheese until melted and well combined.

STEP 6: Let the dish stand for 5 minutes to thicken.

PRO TIP:

When cooking the elbow macaroni in the skillet, make sure to keep an eye on the pasta and cook it just until al dente. This will ensure it absorbs the flavors without becoming too soft or mushy.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave until heated through.

Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Additions & Substitutions

ADDITIONS:

Vegetables: Add peas, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Bacon: Stir in some cooked, crumbled bacon for added richness.

SUBSTITUTIONS:

Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or ground chicken instead.
Cheeses: Feel free to use different cheese combinations, such as Colby Jack or Gouda, for a unique flavor twist.
Pasta: Use any short pasta you would like.

FAQs about Hamburger Helper Recipes:

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like rotini or shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk or broth to keep it creamy.

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and make sure the broth and seasonings you use are gluten-free.

What Can I Serve with this Cheeseburger Mac Hamburger Helper?

Serve this cheeseburger macaroni with a fresh side salad, easy garlic bread or green beans.

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

I’m excited for you to try this Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – I’m eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do!