Homemade Hamburger Helper is a dish that embodies nostalgia and comfort, reminiscent of simpler times and home-cooked family meals. This recipe transforms the familiar store-bought version into a homemade delight, enhancing its flavor and heartiness with fresh ingredients.
On a cold winter evening, as I sift through my pantry, I come across a box of Hamburger Helper. Memories of my childhood rush back—those days when my mom prepared this savory, creamy dish after a long day. Inspired, I set out to recreate this cherished meal from scratch, infusing it with wholesome ingredients and a personal touch. This homemade version has since become a beloved staple in my home, and I'm excited to share it with you, hoping it finds a special place in your family's meal rotation.
Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 cup boiling water
1 cup uncooked macaroni noodles
2 cups milk
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons each of garlic and onion powder
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, then drain any excess fat.
Add the boiling water and macaroni noodles to the skillet, stirring well.
Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the macaroni is cooked, stirring occasionally.
In a separate bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the milk.
Pour this milk mixture into the skillet, adding the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Stir to combine.
Allow the sauce to cook over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens.
Mix in the grated cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this comforting and heartwarming Homemade Hamburger Helper, a dish that's sure to bring back fond memories and create new ones around your dinner table.