Homemade Hamburger Helper

No ratings yet

A comforting, budget-friendly meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a creamy cheese sauce flavored with onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. This homemade version is customizable and avoids processed mixes.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Rate Pin Pin Recipe Print Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoon butter or olive oil
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon paprika
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
0.5 cup frozen peas (optional)
0.5 cup frozen corn (optional)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the cooked beef and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
Return the beef and onion mixture to the saucepan. Add the cooked macaroni and optional peas and corn. Stir everything together until heated through.
Serve hot, topped with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Notes