This homemade Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper has all the nostalgic flavor of the boxed version, but made with real, simple ingredients. Cheddar cheese, beef broth, milk, onion, and tomato paste create a richer, creamier cheeseburger flavor in this easy, cozy one pot meal everyone will love.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground Beef - I like to use lean (90%) ground beef, so I don't have to drain the excess fat. You can alos use ground chicken or ground turkey for a slightly different flavor.
Beef Broth - Beef broth adds the most flavor, but you can substitute water or chicken broth if that's what you have on hand.
Milk - I usually use 2% or skim milk. I haven't tested alternative milks, like almond or oat, but they may make the sauce a little thinner and alter the flavor.
Flour - It helps thicken the sauce and make it creamy. You could also use the same amount of corn starch for this recipe.
Tomato Paste- It really helps to give this pasta that cheeseburger flavor, but you can skip it if you want. You could also use ketchup for a less concentrated and sweeter taste. I wouldn't substitute it with tomato sauce, since it would add extra liquid to the sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce - One tablespoon of soy sauce is a great substitute if you don't have Worcestershire sauce.
Macaroni- Any short pasta shape will work here, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Cheese - Cheddar cheese gives this recipe the classic cheeseburger flavor, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack are all good substitutes for a slightly different twist.
Full ingredient list with quantities in the recipe card below
How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
Cook Ground Beef
Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
Add Other Ingredients & Simmer
Stir the beef broth, milk, flour slurry, salt, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and macaroni. Simmer for 10-12 minutes.
Add Cheese
Stir in the cheese. Cook for another 1-3 minutes.
Tips
If the sauce seems too thick or dry, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of water until it reaches your desired consistency. The sauce will also thicken up agin when you add the cheese.
If the noodles are still not done after 12 minutes, add 2 more tablespoons of water and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
Common Questions
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
This stores and reheats pretty well. Store in the fridge for 3-4 days, and reheat in the microwave with a splash of water until warm.
Can I add vegetables?
You can easily add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, or green chilies to this recipe.
Sides for recipe
- Veggies! - Steamed, roasted, or microwaved broccoli, green beans, peas, carrots, or mixed vegetables make an easy and healthy side.
- Texas Toast - If you're looking for more carbs, nothing beats the taste (and smell) of homemade Texas Toast. You only need four ingredients and 12 minutes to prep.
- Salad- A simple green salad, Caesar salad, cucumber salad, coleslaw, or sliced tomatoes helps balance the richness of the pasta.
Tried this recipe? Let everyone know how it turned out! Your feedback and tips help others decide if they should make it.
Homemade Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef 90%
- ½ medium yellow onion finely minced, about 1 cup
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk any kind
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 12 oz Macaroni about 2 ½ cups
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic, breaking up the meat as it cooks, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and ⅓ cup of water to make a slurry.
- Stir the beef broth, milk, flour slurry, salt, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and macaroni into the skillet. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the macaroni is tender. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
- Remove the lid and stir in the cheddar cheese. Cook for another 1-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on the ingredients used.
Anonymous says
The family really liked this recipe especially my picky 14 year grandson easy and quick. Will be making again.