Homemade Hamburger Helper
A comforting and easy one-pan meal that brings the flavors of homemade hamburger helper to your table in no time.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion (diced)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
Dairy
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta
- 8 oz small pasta shells (or small elbow pasta)
Liquids
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)
Spices
- 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large sauté pan, then set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of grease.
- Cook the onion until soft, then add garlic for the last 30 seconds.
- Add flour, stir, then slowly add beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in tomato sauce, seasonings, and pasta; simmer covered for 12-15 minutes.
- Add cream and cheese, stir until melted, then return beef to heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Let rest for a minute before serving.
Notes
For a creamier texture, use half and half instead of heavy cream.