Description
A creamy and satisfying homemade version of the classic Hamburger Helper, featuring tender pasta, ground meat, and rich cheese in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with customizable protein options.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound lean ground beef, or ground turkey
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Dry Ingredients & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Liquids & Pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth, or chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 8 oz small pasta shells, or small elbow pasta
Cream & Cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, or half and half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning & Salts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large sauté pan with a lid, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Remove the cooked meat and set aside, reserving 2 tablespoons of the grease in the pan.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Lower the heat to medium, add the diced onion, and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. During the last 30 seconds, stir in the minced garlic.
- Cook Flour: Add the flour to the pan, stirring constantly, and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Slowly pour in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and bring to a boil. Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and the pasta. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth if noodles are not cooked and liquid evaporates.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy. Return the cooked ground meat to the pan and mix well. Heat through for a couple more minutes, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream and cheese, or add a splash of hot sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
