Homemade Hamburger Helper

Step aside boxed stuff, this homemade hamburger helper is almost as easy to make and tastes way better with fresh ingredients.

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Every day that goes by is a day closer to my last day living in Memphis. Six and a half years ago I couldn’t wait for this day but now nothing could have possibly prepared me for the emotional roller coaster created by this reality. I have even added Tennessee to my job searches despite my desire to be relieved of the infernal summers here.

As far as packing goes, I still only have two boxes packed because I find the idea of living in a packed up apartment depressing. Just seeing those two boxes and the three empty shelves that correspond to their contents makes me sad. I am not sure what would be better: pack and move earlier to rip off the band-aid or continue slowly to get used to it? I’ll stick to the latter for now.

If you’re still with me and reading this after that whiny rant, then reward yourself with a homemade hamburger helper. It will comfort your worries away, if only for dinnertime. And I will try to be less of a Debbie Downer.

Serve it along with your favorite green side dish, whether it be a simple salad, steamed or roasted vegetables, or something more elaborate.

Post updated 9/28/2025, photo above is the original.

HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER

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Yield: 4-6 Servings Prep Time: 10 Minutes Cooking Time: 35 MInutes 35 MInutes

Nutrition facts: 200 calories 20 grams fat

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped (~3/4 cup)
• 1-1/3 lb. ground beef
• 2-1/2 cups 2% milk
• 2-1/2 cups beef broth or hot water
• 1 lb. elbow macaroni
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp tomato pasta
• 1 Tbsp chili powder
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Pinch crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
• 8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to heat up, then add the onion. Cook until softened and starting to turn translucent. Add the ground beef. and cook until browned and no longer pink. Discard any fat.
2. Add the milk, brother, macaroni, and all but the cheese and stir to combine. Bring to a boil and turn the heat down to simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the pasta is al dente.
3. Add the cheese and stir to combine. Serve immediately.

Source: Adapted from Farmgirl Gourmet and The Kitchn.