One-Pan Hamburger Helper

A cozy, homemade version of the beloved boxed classic—this One-Pan Hamburger Helper features tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Everything cooks together in a single skillet, making it an easy, satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers the nostalgic comfort of Hamburger Helper but made entirely from scratch, so you control the ingredients and seasoning. It’s rich, hearty, and family-friendly, with the pasta absorbing all the savory flavors as it cooks. Because it’s a one-pan meal, there’s less mess, and you can have dinner on the table quickly without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb lean ground beef
½ medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 cup whole or 2% milk
24 oz jarred pasta sauce (your favorite flavor)
10 oz medium pasta shells, uncooked (about 2 ½ cups)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Drain excess fat and return the skillet to heat.

2. Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in beef broth, milk, and pasta sauce; bring to a boil.

4. Add uncooked pasta shells, stirring often. Cook uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 576 kcal per serving

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

• Swap cheddar cheese for a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta shells if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta shape like elbows, rotini, or penne will work—adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking, especially in the first few minutes.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free milk alternative and vegan cheese shreds to make it dairy-free.

What pasta sauce works best?

A smooth marinara or tomato basil sauce works beautifully, but you can use any variety you like.

Do I have to drain the beef?

If using lean beef, you may not need to drain. For fattier cuts, draining helps prevent excess grease.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, cook as directed, then cool and store. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk before serving.

How can I make it extra cheesy?

Add an extra cup of cheese or top with cheese before serving.

What sides go well with this dish?

A green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair nicely.

How can I make it healthier?

Use lean meat, whole grain pasta, and add plenty of vegetables.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Hamburger Helper is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. By making it from scratch, you get a fresher, more customizable version of the classic, all while keeping the ease and convenience of a one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a recipe the whole family will request again and again.

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