Absolutely! You can have this homemade Hamburger Helper ready in under 30 minutes. If you grew up with Hamburger Helper, you know it brings a certain kind of comfort—the kind that comes from an easy, hearty dinner shared around the table. But here’s the good news: you don’t need the box to get that same cozy, satisfying meal. This homemade version comes together in under 30 minutes with real ingredients and just one pan. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids after a busy day or need a no-fuss dinner that still feels like home, this recipe checks all the boxes.

I grew up on the boxed Hamburger Helper, and honestly, it brings back all kinds of memories. But I never realized how simple it was to make a homemade version—one that tastes even better and uses real, farm-raised ingredients. This one-pot wonder is just right for those nights when time is short, dishes need to be few, and you’ve got hungry mouths to feed.

It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of comfort—everything kids love, with the bonus of knowing exactly what’s in it. This recipe’s got good protein, real flavor, and a no-fuss method that lets you make it ahead if needed. Around here, it’s become a go-to meal that brings back a little nostalgia with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter, tallow, lard or olive oil

• 1 pound strandquist family farm ground beef

• 1 small onion (peeled and grated)

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 2 cups pasta, such as elbow macaroni

• 4 cups beef broth (to make homemade broth, click here)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

In order to master this delicious pasta dish, you’ll need to follow these simple steps:

Step One. Set a large pot over medium heat. Add the oil to warm. Then, add the beef and onions and cook until the beef has browned, about 8-10 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pot.

Step Two. Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt and pepper.

Step Three. Add the beef broth and turn the heat to high. When it boils, reduce to medium so the liquid simmers with some bubbles.

Step Four. Add the pasta to the pot and stir gently.

Step Five. Cook until the pasta is just tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, or for about 14-16 minutes. It’s OK if there’s some liquid remaining, as it will be absorbed as the pasta sits.

Step Six. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheese to melt.

Enjoy!

[Recipe shared by Lauren, a Standquist Family Farm Customer, Inspired from Yummy Toddler Food and edited for Strandquist Family Farm]