Cheesy homemade hamburger helper is the ultimate one-skillet meal that turns simple pantry ingredients into a bowl of creamy, meaty, and downright comforting pasta. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hungry adults, this dinner brings everyone to the table with its nostalgic flavor—just way better than the boxed stuff.
ADVERTISEMENT
If you’re into hearty one-pan meals that come together fast, you’ll also enjoy this rich and cozy basic vegetable soup from tinsuf.com—a great way to balance the richness of this cheesy pasta.
Let’s be real: we all grew up with the classic Hamburger Helper, but this homemade version is creamier, cheesier, and more satisfying. And the best part? It’s done in just 30 minutes with no mystery ingredients—just real, delicious food.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1½ pounds ground beef
½ yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
8 oz tomato sauce
½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Want a lighter creamy option to go with this rich dish? Try this easy creamy cucumber salad—it adds the perfect fresh contrast.
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni just until al dente (you want it slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
ADVERTISEMENT
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and no longer pink. During the last 30 seconds, stir in minced garlic. Drain excess fat.
3. Build the Sauce
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream. Add shredded cheddar and stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
ADVERTISEMENT
4. Combine
Add the drained pasta into the skillet. Stir until fully coated in the cheesy beef sauce.
ADVERTISEMENT
5. Serve
Remove from heat, let rest 5 minutes, then scoop into bowls and enjoy every creamy, beefy bite.
How to Make Cheesy Homemade Hamburger Helper Like a Pro
To get the creamiest cheesy homemade hamburger helper, always shred your own cheese—it melts better. Don’t overcook the pasta; slightly underdone is better since it finishes cooking in the sauce. Using tomato sauce adds tang, but if you like it creamier, reduce the tomato and add a little more cream. And for maximum flavor? Let the whole dish sit for a few minutes before serving—this helps the sauce thicken and cling to the noodles perfectly.
Tips & Variations
Swap proteins: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Change cheeses: Sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a bit of mozzarella work great.
Boost flavor: Add fresh parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Add veggies: Stir in peas, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Need a comforting side dish? This pineapple layer cake with glaze makes the perfect sweet finish to this savory meal.
ADVERTISEMENT
