Description
This Homemade Hamburger Helper is a creamy, cheesy skillet meal made with real ingredients and bold flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight comfort food that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Sauté onions until soft, then stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook until slightly darkened.
- Pour in beef broth and add uncooked pasta. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is al dente, stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season to taste and serve hot with optional parsley garnish.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melting.
- Replace ground beef with turkey or plant-based options for variety.
- Add chili flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.
- Reheat with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.