Homemade Hamburger Helper (Creamy, Easy & Better Than the Box) 🍝

Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper (Creamy, Easy & Better Than the Box) 🍝
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound lean ground beef (I recommend 90/10 or 93/7 so you don't have to drain excess fat); 1 small yellow onion (diced small (white onion may be substituted)); 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika); 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder OR about 2 finely minced garlic cloves; 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour; 8 ounces small-shaped dry uncooked pasta* (See Notes); 2 ½ cups reduced sodium beef broth; ½ cup tomato puree; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (honey mustard may be substituted; I don't care for yellow mustard here); 1 heaping cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (and optionally 1/2 cup more for sprinkling on top); ¼ cup sweet pickle relish OR diced sweet gherkins OR 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional); 2 tablespoons green onions (sliced thin; optional for garnishing)

Instructions

Prep:5minCook:25min

🍔🧀 An EASY 30 minute dinner made in ONE skillet with saucy, cheesy pasta and juicy ground beef in every bite. It’s hearty, comforting, and a family FAVORITE that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Once you make this homemade version, you may never go back to the store bought stuff!

Updated at: Fri, 28 Aug 2026 01:44:17 GMT