Homemade Hamburger Helper: A Comforting Delight

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 medium-sized onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)

• 6 cups beef stock

• ½ cup tomato sauce

• 1 cup whole milk

• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped

• 1 pound pasta shells

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Season the Beef

1. Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

2. Stir well to evenly coat the meat with the spices.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

1. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the meat mixture and stir to combine, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

2. Pour in the beef stock, tomato sauce, and whole milk.

3. Add the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.

4. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

1. Add the pasta shells directly into the pot.

2. Stir occasionally and let the pasta cook until al dente, about 9–10 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese & Spinach

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

2. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.

3. Add the baby spinach and mix gently until wilted.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

1. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

2. Garnish with additional cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 580

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 60g

• Fat: 22g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Cholesterol: 90mg

• Sodium: 850mg

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 6g

💡 Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, swap half of the cheddar cheese for Gruyère or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat!

Conclusion

We hope you love this homemade Hamburger Helper as much as we do! This dish brings together perfectly seasoned beef, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta for a comforting meal that far exceeds the boxed version. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach gives it a gourmet touch, making it a hearty and satisfying choice for any night of the week.

Try it out, share it with family and friends, and enjoy every bite! Happy cooking! 🍽️🔥