Easy One Pot Hamburger Helper

Name: Easy One Pot Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion (finely diced); 1 pound ground beef (use 93/7); 1 ½ tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste); 3 ½ cups beef stock; ½ cup heavy cream; 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta; 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated about 2 cups); 1 tablespoon chives (finely chopped for serving)

Whip up a comforting classic with this One Pot Hamburger Helper! Ground beef and macaroni are infused with savory seasonings and tossed in a rich, creamy sauce featuring sharp cheddar cheese, tomato paste, and heavy cream. This quick, easy, and nostalgic dish makes the perfect weeknight dinner!

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Why This Recipe Works

Hamburger helper might be a childhood classic, but it’s still popular for a reason! This recipe is ready in 25 minutes, uses mostly pantry staples, and is made in a single pot.

Like my one pot beef stroganoff recipe, this quick and easy dinner is perfect for weeknights. Its familiar flavors and cheesy goodness make it a meal that’s universally loved by both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to adapt and customize based on what you have in your fridge.

You can swap in ground turkey, use gluten-free pasta, or even try dairy-free cheese and cream. The combination of savory spices, creamy sauce, and tender pasta makes each bite of this one pot hamburger helper comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Olive Oil: To sauté the onions. Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best results.
Onion: Gives the dish a sweet and aromatic flavor. You can use white or yellow onion.
Ground Beef: I use 90/10 ground beef. The lean meat provides a hearty, rich base, but the lower fat content keeps it healthier.
Tomato Paste: The concentrated tomato flavor deepens the overall taste profile, adding a hint of sweetness and umami.
Garlic & Onion Powder: Both of these seasonings help amplify the savory flavors, giving the dish a well-rounded depth.
Dried Oregano: Brings in a subtle, earthy flavor with a slightly bitter note, which complements the meat beautifully.
Chili Powder: Adds a mild heat and complexity, adding layers of flavors to the sauce.
Beef Stock: Use beef stock or broth to add a robust beefy flavor.
Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce a silky, creamy, and comforting taste and texture.
Elbow Macaroni Pasta: The classic pasta choice for hamburger helper! Elbow macaroni’s shape holds onto the sauce for perfect bites.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the dish, adding a tangy depth and creamy texture.
Chives: Freshly chopped for garnish, they add a pop of color and a mild oniony bite that brightens the finished dish.

Browning beef, simmering macaroni, and adding cheese.

Instructions

Start with the Base: In a large pan over medium heat, add the olive oil and the finely diced onion. Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Brown the Beef: Next, add your ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and brown it for about 5 minutes. If necessary, dab out excess fat with a paper towel.
Add the Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, garlic and onion powder, dried oregano, chili powder, and kosher salt to coat the beef evenly.
Liquids Next: Pour the beef stock and heavy cream into the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni.
Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer, stirring often, for about 6-7 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
Mix in the Cheese: Turn the heat off and stir in 8 ounces of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted, serve your one pot hamburger helper in bowls. Sprinkle the tops with finely chopped chives for a fresh finish!

Substitutions & Variations

Ground Beef: For a lighter alternative, try ground turkey or chicken. For a richer flavor, use 80/20 ground beef.
Beef Stock: You can also use chicken or turkey stock. For a vegetarian option, swap the beef stock with vegetable stock.
Heavy Cream: You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. However, the sauce will not be as rich and velvety.
Pasta: For a fiber boost, opt for whole wheat elbow macaroni. You can also use your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni.
Cheese: Mix up the flavors of the sauce by using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a smoked cheese for a different taste.
Add Veggies: Stir in peas, diced bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Spicy: You can incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Closeup of macaroni, beef, sauce, and chives.

Storing & Reheating

If you end up with leftover one pot hamburger helper, keep it fresh with these storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw the hamburger helper overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Hands serving a bowl of hamburger helper.

Expert Tips

Brown the Beef Properly: Make sure the pan is nice and hot before adding your ground beef to achieve a deep color and perfect sear.
Stir Frequently: Keep the pasta from sticking by stirring it often while it simmers.
Al Dente Pasta: Aim for pasta that’s cooked but still firm to the bite for the best texture.
Control the Consistency: Adjust the amount of heavy cream or stock based on your preferred sauce thickness.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of grating it myself?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it usually contains anti-caking agents that can affect its ability to melt. I recommend grating your own cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Always check labels to ensure the other ingredients don’t contain gluten as well.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid overcooking the pasta, keep a close eye on the pot during the simmering stage and test it for doneness a minute or two before the package suggests.

If you enjoyed this one pot hamburger helper recipe, take a peek at some more one pot pasta recipes like these:

If you try this One Pot Hamburger Helper, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!