One Pot Hamburger Helper
This One Pot Hamburger Helper is creamy, cheesy, full of flavor, and made completely from scratch in just one pan. It's an easy dinner the whole family will love, and so much better than the boxed version. Ground beef and tender pasta cook together in a simple tomato and cheddar sauce for a comforting meal that's kid-approved, adult-approved, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- ½ yellow onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp sea salt divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth more if needed
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz elbow pasta uncooked
- 1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (per your preference)
- Fresh parsley for topping
Instructions
- Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with ½ teaspoon of the sea salt, paprika, oregano, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and tomato sauce and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and whole milk. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the uncooked elbow pasta and remaining ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Stir well, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 8–12 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Remove from the heat and let the Hamburger Helper rest for 2–3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken. Top with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts more smoothly and will give you the creamiest sauce.
Watch the pasta: Different pasta brands and shapes can cook at different rates. If the pasta still needs more time but the pan looks dry, add a small splash of chicken broth or milk.
Adjust the consistency: The sauce thickens as it rests. If it becomes too thick, stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth before serving.
Add some veggies: Peas, finely chopped spinach, or diced bell peppers are easy additions.
For leftovers: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to make the sauce creamy again.