Homemade Hamburger Helper (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Meat
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef
→ Sauce and Liquid
02 -
2 cups beef broth
03 -
1 cup tomato sauce
04 -
1 cup heavy cream
→ Pasta
05 -
2 cups small pasta shells
→ Cheese
06 -
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Vegetables and Aromatics
07 -
1 medium onion, finely chopped
08 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Thickener
09 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
→ Seasonings
10 -
Salt and black pepper, to taste
11 -
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease, reserving 2 tablespoons in the skillet.
02 -
Add chopped onion to the reserved grease and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic during the last 30 seconds.
03 -
Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
04 -
Slowly whisk in beef broth and tomato sauce, bringing the mixture to a boil while stirring to combine.
05 -
Stir in pasta shells and seasonings, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Add extra broth if needed.
06 -
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.
07 -
Return cooked ground beef to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
08 -
Serve immediately, optionally with side salads or garlic bread.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
For a gluten-free option, substitute flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free pasta; cooking time may be slightly longer.
02 -
Adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots or spinach boosts nutrition and flavor.
03 -
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties which may contain anti-caking agents.
04 -
To restore creaminess when reheating leftovers, add a splash of cream or broth.
05 -
Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for varied taste.