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This skillet hamburger helper brings back the nostalgic comfort of the boxed classic but with fresh ingredients and better flavor. Made from scratch in just 35 minutes, it delivers that same cheesy, beefy goodness that both kids and adults crave when comfort food is calling.
I started making this homemade version after reading the ingredient list on the boxed kind and wondering if I could do better. Now my family requests this version specifically, often pointing out how much more flavorful it is than what they remember from the box.
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
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The tomato paste is truly the secret ingredient here. While the boxed version uses dehydrated tomato powder, real tomato paste brings concentrated flavor that creates that distinctive Hamburger Helper taste everyone remembers, but with a fresher, more authentic profile.
Make Ahead Options
Flavor Variations
Serving Suggestions
Troubleshooting Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of beef works best for this dish?
Lean ground beef, such as 90% lean, works best to keep the dish flavorful without being overly greasy.
- → Can I substitute the macaroni?
Yes, you can use other short pasta types like penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
- → How do I make it thicker if needed?
If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes or add a bit more cornstarch slurry.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute cornstarch for thickening instead of flour-based alternatives.
- → Is there a way to make this spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for some heat.