Description

This homemade Hamburger Helper recipe transforms ground beef, macaroni, and a creamy cheese sauce into a hearty, family-friendly dinner that is quicker and tastier than the boxed version, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
3 cups beef broth, alcohol-free
8 oz elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon alcohol-free Worcestershire sauce
1 cup whole milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
0.5 teaspoon dry mustard
6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
4 oz Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
0.5 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
0.25 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Brown Ground Beef: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until it is beautifully browned (about 6-8 minutes). Drain off any excess fat.
Saute Onion and Garlic: Add 1 medium diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for just another minute until fragrant.
Simmer Macaroni: Stir in 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained), 3 cups beef broth, 8 oz elbow macaroni, and 1 tablespoon alcohol-free Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a full boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender to the bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. (If the mixture looks too dry before the pasta is cooked, splash in 1-2 tablespoons of extra broth.)
Prepare Cream Sauce: While the macaroni cooks, whisk together 1 cup whole milk, 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 0.5 teaspoon dry mustard in a small bowl until smooth.
Stir in Cheeses and Season: Once the macaroni is tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 6 oz freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 4 oz freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese, along with your prepared creamy smoked paprika mixture. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth, rich, and creamy. Season with 0.5 teaspoon salt and 0.25 teaspoon black pepper to taste, adding more if needed.

Notes

For a healthier meal, consider using organic ingredients, grass-fed beef or whole wheat pasta, or low-sodium broth. Ground turkey or chicken can substitute beef. Add fresh spinach at the end until wilted. Always drain fat from beef for a less greasy dish and stir pasta periodically to prevent sticking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450 calories
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg