Homemade Hamburger Helper Skillet

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Enjoy a comforting one-pot meal featuring seasoned ground beef paired with tender macaroni. Everything simmers in a robust mixture of crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and classic Italian spices. The final touch of hand-shredded cheddar cheese melts into a creamy sauce, ensuring each bite delivers rich, savory satisfaction. This dish comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it ideal for busy evenings, with minimal cleanup required. Classic flavors and simple steps make this skillet dinner a go-to for families seeking warmth and hearty taste at dinnertime.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sat, 19 Jul 2025 17:04:54 GMT
A bowl of homemade Hamburger Helper. Save
A bowl of homemade Hamburger Helper. | lilicooks.com

This homemade hamburger helper is my weeknight solution when everyone wants something cheesy and comforting with minimal effort. By cooking everything in a single pot—ground beef, macaroni, and a velvety cheese sauce—there is hardly any cleanup and the flavors are spot on. It is a total upgrade from the boxed stuff and comes together using just pantry and fridge staples.

When I first tried making this from scratch it instantly reminded me of school night dinners at my mom’s house. My whole family now asks for it when they need a cozy meal fast.

Ingredients

  • Macaroni pasta: gives classic shape and cooks up perfectly in the sauce Choose one that holds up well when simmered
  • Ground beef: provides a hearty base Opt for eighty percent lean for best flavor and texture
  • Crushed tomatoes: add body and a tangy note Go for a quality brand to avoid excess liquid
  • Beef broth: deepens the savory taste and keeps pasta moist Look for low sodium so you can control the final saltiness
  • Minced garlic: infuses rich fragrance Use fresh if possible for best punch
  • Cheddar cheese: delivers creaminess and classic cheesy flavor Hand shredding melts smoother than bagged pre-shredded varieties
  • Salt and pepper: bring everything into balance Adjust to taste especially right at the end
  • Italian seasoning: blends herbs for an extra layer of flavor Use a fresh jar for best results
  • Garlic powder: intensifies the beefy base and is great for seasoning throughout
  • Onion powder: adds mild sweetness and depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot set over medium high heat add the ground beef Break it into small pieces as it cooks so there are no large clumps Once the beef is fully browned drain off any excess fat to avoid greasy sauce
Season the Meat:
Stir in the minced garlic and sprinkle in salt pepper garlic powder onion powder and Italian seasoning Stir well for even coverage You want every bite to have that herby savory flavor
Build the Sauce:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth into the pan Mix thoroughly and scrape the bottom to bring up any browned bits That is where tons of flavor lives
Cook the Macaroni:
Raise the heat just enough to bring everything to a gentle boil Add the macaroni Next stir occasionally so nothing sticks Cook until the pasta is al dente about ten to fifteen minutes If the pot looks dry splash in a little more beef broth so the pasta stays saucy
Finish with Cheese:
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese Watch it melt and coat every noodle Taste and reseason with more salt pepper or garlic powder if you like
Serve Warm:
Ladle straight into bowls while it is still hot and gooey Sprinkle with extra cheese if you are feeling fancy
A bowl of homemade Hamburger Helper. Save
A bowl of homemade Hamburger Helper. | lilicooks.com

My favorite part of this recipe is always the cheddar cheese I love seeing those ribbons of cheese pull as I serve it up My kids beg to help with the cheese every single time—they claim it is the most important job

Storage Tips

Leftovers last up to three days in the fridge Store in an airtight container and add a splash of broth or milk before reheating to keep it creamy For freezer storage let cool fully before portioning out this prevents excess moisture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if that is your preference Whole wheat or gluten free pasta works too You can also use mozzarella cheese if you are out of cheddar or split the difference for extra stretch Choose vegetable broth if you want a lighter flavor

A bowl of homemade Hamburger Helper. Save
A bowl of homemade Hamburger Helper. | lilicooks.com

Serving Suggestions

Go classic with garlic bread or add roasted broccoli for color This also pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed peas If you want to turn it into a grownup meal dot with hot sauce or a handful of fresh basil

A Bit of History

Hamburger Helper became popular in the nineteen seventies as a speedy way for busy families to stretch a pound of ground beef over a filling dinner Making it homemade means you control quality and tailor the seasonings You get that nostalgic feeling without any processed flavors

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute macaroni with penne, rotini, or small shells. Adjust cooking time as needed until the pasta is tender.

→ What cheese works best for this dish?

Sharp cheddar cheese melts well and adds extra flavor, but you can try Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend for variety.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

Keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers and stir occasionally. Add broth as needed and test for doneness after 10 minutes.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

Yes, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Diced bell peppers, spinach, or peas make tasty additions. Add them with the tomatoes or at the end to suit your preference.

Homemade Hamburger Helper Skillet

Cheesy ground beef, macaroni, and tomatoes simmer together in one pot for a comforting meal everyone will love.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Overall Time
30 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: ~

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 1 lb macaroni pasta
02 1 lb ground beef
03 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
04 3 cups beef broth
05 2 tablespoons minced garlic
06 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, hand shredded
07 Salt, to taste
08 Black pepper, to taste
09 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
10 1 tablespoon garlic powder
11 1 tablespoon onion powder

Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, add the ground beef and cook it over medium-high heat. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

Stir in the minced garlic and season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 03

Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and the beef broth.

Step 04

Bring the mixture to a soft boil and add the macaroni pasta. Let the pasta cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more beef broth if necessary to ensure the pasta is properly cooked.

Step 05

Once the pasta is fully cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Reseason with salt, pepper, or garlic powder, if needed.

Step 06

Serve the Hamburger Helper warm and enjoy!

Required Tools

  • Large pot

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese)
  • Contains gluten (macaroni pasta)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 420
  • Fats: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Proteins: 25 g