Skip the box and make this Homemade Cheesy Hamburger Helper with real ingredients in just 30 minutes! This one-pot meal is ultra-creamy, packed with protein, and way better than the store-bought version.
Who didn’t love the cheesy, goodness of Hamburger Helper growing up. It brings me back to my childhood in so many ways. Over the years I have tried several different better for you recipes and just have never had one taste like the box stuff. I wanted all the creamy and flavorful without the huge list of added ingredients. That was when I decided to try to throw together what I thought would taste like the original. After many tries I think this is one of my favorite recipes yet. Plus, it has so many good ingredients that I feel proud to serve to my family. Give me all the classic comforts with nourishing ingredients!
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
One-pot & easy cleanup: This meal is quick and easy, finished in under 30 minutes. The best part is it all cooks in one pan for super simple cleanup on a busy weeknight.
High-protein & nourishing: I wanted to make sure to add as much protein as possible. Adding in some Greek Yogurt, egg, and bone broth makes this recipe even more nutritious.
Better than the box: When I tell you that you do not want to look at the ingredients on the original box I am not kidding. I made sure to create this recipe with no artificial flavors or preservatives making it something you will want to feed your family.
Kid-friendly & comforting: What is better than cheesy and creamy? Your kids will love this homemade cheesy hamburger helper recipe and ask for more.
Ingredients Breakdown
Ground Beef: I like to use grass-fed beef for the best flavor and nutrition. You could also substitute with ground turkey or bison for variety.
Elbow Macaroni: You can use any pasta you prefer but the elbows are the classic pasta choice for this dish.
Beef Bone Broth: Adds depth in the flavor and so many extra nutrients. Regular beef broth or stock works too.
Whole Milk: Gives you the rich and creamy base for your dish.
Butter: Adds an enhanced flavor and increases richness.
Onion Powder: Gives the classic savory taste without cutting up onions.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds so much flavor but you can substitute with ½ tsp of garlic powder if needed.
Garlic Powder: Adds extra garlicky goodness.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors
Mustard Powder or Dijon Mustard (optional): Adds a subtle tang that enhances the cheesy flavor.
Smoked Paprika: A touch of smokiness for depth.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: reshly shredded melts best and creates the ultimate creamy texture.
Greek Yogurt: Boost protein while making the sauce extra creamy and delicious.
Egg: Gives a bit more protein while helping bind the sauce and giving a rich, velvety texture.
How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
1. Brown the Beef
Cook ground beef in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat if needed- I prefer to leave it for all the added nutrition. Add in the butter and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Seasonings & Liquids
Stir in your seasonings- onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and smoked paprika. Add the bone broth and milk, then bring to a simmer.
3. Cook the Pasta
Stir in dry macaroni, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Egg for Extra Creaminess
Whisk the eggs in a small bowl. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir the eggs into the pasta mixture to prevent scrambling.
5. Stir in Cheese & Greek Yogurt
Turn off the heat and stir in cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade, cheesy hamburger helper!
Tips and Variations for The Best Homemade Hamburger Helper
- You could use ground bison or turkey for extra protein as well as add more Greek yogurt.
- Swap out of the macaroni for a gluten-free version if needed, you could even use rice.
- Use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese for a dairy free option.
- Stir in spinach, zucchini, or peas at the end to add some extra veggies.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months. Add milk when reheating to keep it creamy. I prefer it the next day when all the flavors have melded.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You could substitute with sour cream, blended cottage cheese, or heavy cream. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut cream.
How do I make it without eggs?
Just leave the egg out and add extra Greek yogurt or cheese for creaminess.
More Easy One-Pot Meals
- Easy Dutch Baby Pancake
- Quick and Nourishing Chicken Soup
- Simple Roasted Chicken
- Fluffy High-Protein Scrambled Eggs
If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be so grateful if you could take a moment to leave a 5-star rating below! Be sure to tag me @simplychelseahome on Instagram so I can see your delicious results!
Homemade Cheesy Hamburger Helper
Ingredients
Method
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add butter and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and smoked paprika. Add bone broth and milk, then bring to a simmer.
- Stir in dry macaroni, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Whisk the egg in a small bowl. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir the egg into the pasta mixture to prevent scrambling.
- Turn off the heat and stir in cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or heavy cream before serving.
- Want more protein? Use ground bison or turkey or add more Greek yogurt.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on low with a splash of milk.
Ooh I cannot wait to try this classic!
I hope you enjoy! It is a family favorite here!