1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will still be delicious and slightly lighter, making it a great option if you're looking to reduce fat.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, you can try coconut milk or a plant-based cream.

3. How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

To avoid overcooking the pasta, keep an eye on it during the simmering process and stir occasionally. If it absorbs too much liquid before it’s done, simply add a little extra broth.

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef, or ground turkey; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth, or chicken broth; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon seasoned salt; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 8 oz small pasta shells, or small elbow pasta; ½ cup heavy cream, or half and half; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Description

This easy homemade hamburger helper recipe is a one-pot meal with tender pasta, ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound lean ground beef, or ground turkey
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium beef broth, or chicken broth
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
8 oz small pasta shells, or small elbow pasta
½ cup heavy cream, or half and half
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

In a large sauté pan with a lid, brown the ground beef over medium high heat. Remove cooked ground beef from pan and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
Lower the heat to medium and add the onion. Cook the onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic for the last 30 seconds.
Add the flour and stir to cook for about 1 minute. Slowly stir in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Pour in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pasta. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. If needed, add extra broth if the mixture thickens too much.
Once pasta is tender, reduce the heat and add in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Add the cooked ground beef back in and stir to combine. Let it cook for 2-3 more minutes to warm the beef through.
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken as an alternative to ground beef.
For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
To make the dish gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free pasta.
If using pre-shredded cheese, the sauce might be thicker. You may need to add more cream or broth.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 738
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 1261mg
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0.4g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 49g
Cholesterol: 160mg