If you grew up in the 90s like I did, then you probably remember Hamburger Helper being a weeknight staple. It was quick, easy, and comforting—but let’s be honest, none of us really knew what was in that little box. That why I create the Best Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe!

This right here is my homemade version. It’s got all those same cheesy, cozy flavors, but with real ingredients you actually recognize. And the best part? It’s a one-pot dinner that’s ready in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you’ve got hungry kids staring at you asking, “What’s for dinner, Mama?”

Watch me make this meal here on Instagram!

Btw: If you like this recipe, you’ll also love this Salisbury Steak recipe!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ sweet onion, diced
• 1 cup uncooked large elbow macaroni
• 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth (approximate)
• 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• A splash of milk (about ¼ cup, optional for creaminess)
• Cajun seasoning (my personal favorite!)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

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Directions

1. Dice up half of a sweet onion and toss it in a large pot or deep skillet with your ground beef. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. While that’s browning, go ahead and shred your cheddar cheese so it’s ready to melt in at the end. Trust me, freshly shredded makes it so much creamier.
3. Drain off any excess fat, then return the beef and onion mixture to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste until everything is coated.
4. Pour in the beef broth and crank the heat up to high. Once it’s boiling, add in your macaroni.
5. Turn the heat down to medium (you want it bubbling, but not boiling over) and cook uncovered for about 13–15 minutes. Give it a stir every couple of minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is gone.
6. Take the pot off the heat and stir in the cheese and a splash of milk until it’s rich, creamy, and cheesy.
7. Season it up—this is where I grab my Cajun seasoning because that’s what makes it taste like me. But if you don’t have that on hand, a little salt and pepper will do just fine.

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Why This Recipe Works

• One Pot Wonder = less mess, less dishes (🙌).
• Quick & Easy = dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Pure Nostalgia = it’s all the comfort of the 90s, but with fresh, real ingredients.

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Kayla’s Tips

• If you like it extra creamy, add a little more milk when you stir in the cheese.
• Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in peas or bell peppers while it’s simmering.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you’re in the mood to lighten it up.

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Y’all, this recipe is one of those that never lets me down. It’s hearty, cheesy, and hits that comfort food craving right on the spot. And every time I make it with Cajun seasoning, it just tastes like home.

💡 Pin this one to your “weeknight dinners” board—you’ll thank yourself later when you’re short on time but still want something cozy on the table.