Homemade Hamburger Helper
This extra cheesy and super creamy hamburger helper is sure to bring back thoughts of nostalgia. This homemade version is even better than the boxed variety, without all the preservatives and long-name ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Extra Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Small Onion, diced small
- 2 Garlic Cloves, crushed or minced
- 4 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 2 tbsp Flour
- 2 tsp Onion Powder
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- 1 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Pepper
- 2 cups Whole Milk †
- 1 3/4 cups Beef Broth
- 2 cups Elbow Macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded Cheddar
- 1/4 cup Mascarpone
Instructions
- In a large oiled skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and onions. Cook until beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Add garlic, cook for around one minute, or until garlic is fragrant.
- Add tomato paste, flour, spices, sugar, and salt & pepper to ground beef, mix until well combined and cook for 1 minute. Add milk and beef broth, and bring to a light boil, then add macaroni. Bring to a boil once again, then lower the temperature to medium-low, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until macaroni is tender.
- Remove from heat and add cheddar and mascarpone, mix until cheese is melted and the mascarpone is distributed evenly. Enjoy!
Notes
† Try to use whole milk or 2%, as anything with a lower percentage of fat has the chance of curdling in the presence of tomato products or with high heat.