Homemade Hamburger Helper – A Quick & Creamy One-Pot Dinner
A quick and creamy homemade version of the classic boxed dinner — made with real ingredients in one pot in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2 cups beef broth
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1 cup milk
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2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp mustard powder
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream
Instructions
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In a large skillet, brown ground beef. Drain excess fat.
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Add onion; cook 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook 1–2 minutes.
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Pour in broth and milk. Add dry pasta and seasonings. Stir well.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Once pasta is tender, stir in cheese and optional sour cream. Cook until creamy.
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Serve hot, garnished with herbs or extra cheese.
Notes
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Add veggies or spices to customize.
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Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for variations.
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Store leftovers up to 4 days in the fridge.