One-Pot Hamburger Helper - The Defined Dish - Recipes (2024)

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Cue all of the nostalgic feelings because Hamburger Helper is making a comeback — and this One-Pot Hamburger Helper is still just as simple.

One-Pot Hamburger Helper - The Defined Dish - Recipes (1)

Raise your hands if you grew up on Hamburger Helper? My momma made it all the time and I mean, we can all agree that stuff is freaking delicious and pretty genius! But good grief, if I only knew then what I knew now I would have NEVER put that stuff in my body. It is just packed full of fake and horrible ingredients! So let’s clean it up with this One-Pot Hamburger Helper. And if you’re looking for a take on their Italian Shells and Cheese, check out my One-Pot Italian Shells and Cheese.

But, Hamburger Helper is freaking delicious, easy, and saves a Mom’s life for dinner when she doesn’t have time to think or cook dinner! So Amen to that. However, I made this clean version for my kiddos the other day, and WOW, its delicious. Plus, it doesn’t take any longer than the toxic filled boxed version! So you momma’s out there with picky kids and husbands, rejoice! This is the answer to your prayers.

One-Pot Hamburger Helper - The Defined Dish - Recipes (2)

I’ve told you many times that my favorite brand of gluten-free pasta I use in my house is Jovial Brown Rice Pasta. It only has two ingredients (organic rice flour + water) and the taste and texture is outstanding. I buy mine at Whole Foods and I use it in this dish to keep it gluten-free and clean. Also, if you are a dairy-free family– you’ll see that the dairy I included in the dish is optional.

So here we have it: a one-pot, easy, delicious Hamburger Helper that your kids will say DANGGGG GIRRRL.. haha, maybe they won’t say that but they will definitely say positive things and you only have to dirty up one skillet to make it. I just LOVE it.

If you enjoyed this One-Pot Hamburger Helper, try my other one-pot meals!

One-Pot Hamburger Helper - The Defined Dish - Recipes (3)

One-Pot Hamburger Helper

A cleaner re-make of the classic boxed Hamburger Helper that the whole family will LOVE.

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Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp. paprika
  • 1 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 12 oz. dried elbow pasta (I use Jovial Brown Rice Pasta for Gluten-Free) *regular pasta or even chickpea pasta works here
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups milk *for dairy-free, sub 2 cups almond milk or just do 4 cups of beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, omit for dairy-free
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, onions, and ground beef. Season with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Saute, breaking up the ground beef with the back of a spoon, until the beef is cooked through, no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off excess fat if necessary (I like to keep at least 2 tbsp in there for added flavor).

  • Add in the tomato paste and stir to combine.

  • Add the pasta, the beef broth and the milk and Stir to combine. Bring contents in the pot to a boil and once boiling, reduce the heat to a very subtle simmer and let cook until pasta is tender, stirring very often, until most of the liquid has absorbed and the pasta is al dente, 12 to 15 minutes.

  • Remove from heat and fold in the cheese. Garnish with parsley, if using.

  • Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For reheating: Heat in a skillet over medium heat and add beef broth to rehydrate the noodles. I splash it in about 1/4 cup at a time (depending on how much I am reheating) until it reaches the consistency I want and the noodles are tender again.

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Alex Snodgrass

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Photography by Eat Love Eats.

Dinner Gluten-Free kid food One Pot Recipes Pasta Recipes Undefined Dishes

Welcome! I’m Alex.

I’m a food lover sharing healthy, simple, delicious, recipes from my kitchen to yours. Here you’ll find lots of Whole30, lots of healthy, and a little indulgence here and there because…it’s all about balance y’all!

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One-Pot Hamburger Helper - The Defined Dish - Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What can I add to Hamburger Helper? ›

Here are some recommended swaps and add-ins you can try: Add a boost of veggies: feel free to throw in shredded zucchini, sauteed chopped red bell pepper, or mushrooms or a few cups of chopped spinach! My kids usually never know that it's in there. Spice it up: if you'd like you can add some red pepper flakes on top.

Do you put milk in Hamburger Helper? ›

Since milk adds a creamy texture to the Hamburger Helper sauce, it or its substitutes are recommended as a major ingredient to flavorful Hamburger Helper meals. For best results, choose plant milk or a milk substitute that is sweet or savory, depending on the meal type.

What can I add to Hamburger Helper stroganoff? ›

It's delicious comfort food perfect for chilly evenings. Stir in cooked mushrooms and a dollop of sour cream just before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.

What was the original Hamburger Helper? ›

The brand made its national debut in August 1971. With five flavors – Beef Noodle, Potato Stroganoff, Hash, Rice Oriental and Chili Tomato, it was an instant success. More than one in four – 27 percent – of U.S. households purchased Hamburger Helper in its first year. It was a bit surprising.

How to make Hamburger Helper tastier? ›

Colby jack, Monetary Jack, or mozzarella will give you a mild flavor. For a spicy Hamburger Helper, try pepper jack. Hot Sauce. A dash of hot sauce adds the perfect amount of dimension and interest.

What should I season my Hamburger Helper meat with? ›

Once the ground beef is browned, add steak seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano. Stir well and add the beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, A1 Steak seasoning, and about 2 1/2 cups of pasta.

Can I use evaporated milk instead of regular milk in Hamburger Helper? ›

Milk adds a creamy texure and lends its flavor to the sauce in Hamburger Helper. You may not enjoy the results made with only water. Betty's Emrgency Substitutions page suggests a substitution for a cup of milk: 1/2 cup evaporated milk plus 1/2 cup water; or nonfat dry milk prepared as directed on package.

What happens if you use water instead of milk in Hamburger Helper? ›

Absolutely! Water can be used as a substitute for milk in Hamburger Helper. Keep in mind that using water will result in a more basic flavor profile compared to using milk, as milk adds creaminess and richness. However, it can still produce a tasty and satisfying dish.

How to make Hamburger Helper thicken up? ›

If your Hamburger Helper is too runny or juicy, the best way to thicken it up is to put the lid on the pan and let the mixture steam for at least five minutes. The macaroni will continue to absorb the liquid and the mixture will become thicker. If it always seems too thin, reduce the amount of liquid added.

What makes Hamburger Helper taste better? ›

Other Additions
  1. Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
  2. Hot Sauce: For those who like it spicy.
  3. Sour Cream: Makes the sauce creamier.
  4. Heavy Cream: Adds a rich and indulgent creaminess.
  5. Broth or Stock: Instead of water, use beef stock or beef broth, chicken broth, or vegetable broth to add depth.
Apr 28, 2024

Can I add eggs to Hamburger Helper? ›

Another option is to try the tried-and-tested kitchen hack of using a little hamburger helper and an egg. Do you remember Hamburger Helper? It used to be a go-to kitchen staple back in the day. My mom would use it frequently to whip up a quick and delicious burger that the whole family loved.

Can you add mayo to Hamburger Helper? ›

If necessary, uncover and cook, while stirring, an additional 1 to 3 minutes to desired consistency. ADD – Remove from heat. Stir in mayonnaise. *Use the desired amount of mayonnaise or omit it.

Why was Hamburger Helper discontinued? ›

The decision to cut Helper and Suddenly Salad isn't exactly unexpected. In 2021, Bloomberg reported that General Mills was in talks to shed its packaged dinner brands in order to overhaul its portfolio and focus on businesses that appeal to broader demographics.

How unhealthy is Hamburger Helper? ›

Hamburger Helper contains a ridiculous amount of sodium

But when you dive into what the ingredients provided in the box actually are, you may end up consuming close to your daily recommended amount of sodium.

How to spice up double cheeseburger Hamburger Helper? ›

Almost any of the “helpers” benefit from the addition of sautéed diced onion and minced or grated garlic. This adds another layer of flavor. Or try adding diced red sweet peppers. If it is a cheesy mix add a half cup of freshly grated parmesan and a handful of minced fresh flat leaf parsley.

What can I add to Hamburger Helper if I don't have milk? ›

Stock: If you can't consume dairy, using stock or broth can add flavor to your Hamburger Helper. Beef or vegetable stock works well [2]. Coconut Milk: Both canned and refrigerated unsweetened coconut milk can be used as a substitute for milk. It adds creaminess and a slight coconut flavor to the dish [2].

What can I put in Hamburger Helper instead of milk? ›

10 Best Milk Substitutes For Hamburger Helper
  1. Condiments. • 1 Mayonnaise - blend of mayo.
  2. Dairy. • 1 Buttermilk - blend of buttermilk. • 1 Half-and-half - cup.
  3. Other. • Powdered milk - Reconstitute per package directions and use cup for cup.

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