Are you tired of relying on store-bought mixes for your hamburger helper needs? Look no further! With these 20 creative and easy-to-make homemade hamburger helper recipes, you’ll never have to settle for bland, processed flavors again. From classic cheeseburger pasta to spicy sriracha beef noodle, each recipe is a unique twist on the traditional hamburger helper dish.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of homemade hamburger helper, featuring a variety of mouthwatering and convenient recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these 20 recipes are sure to become new favorites.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into our collection of homemade hamburger helper recipes and start cooking up some delicious comfort food today!
Classic Cheeseburger Pasta Hamburger Helper
Satisfy your pasta cravings with this comforting twist on a classic cheeseburger. This simple recipe combines the flavors of a juicy burger with creamy pasta and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup pasta (such as macaroni or shells)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet Hamburger Helper Classic Cheeseburger Pasta mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, vegetable oil, and Hamburger Helper mix to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large serving dish. Toss until cheese is melted and well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Taco Hamburger Helper
This recipe is a twist on the classic Hamburger Helper, with the added flavors of taco seasoning and Mexican-inspired ingredients. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet Taco Seasoning
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as macaroni or rotini)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of enchilada sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the Taco Seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked pasta, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese to the pot. Stir until well combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Hamburger Helper
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy twist on classic Hamburger Helper. This recipe combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and cream for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper mix
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Add Hamburger Helper mix, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the garlic. Stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked ground beef with the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Hamburger Helper
Transform your classic hamburger helper into a spicy and savory masterpiece with the addition of jalapeños and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Hamburger Helper (Original or any flavor)
– 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 8 oz ground beef
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the Hamburger Helper according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped jalapeños to the cooked ground beef and stir well.
5. Combine the cooked Hamburger Helper and the jalapeño-infused ground beef in a mixing bowl.
6. Mix in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper
Get ready for a comfort food twist on classic Hamburger Helper! This recipe combines juicy burgers, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese with the convenience of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked bacon, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add the milk, peas and carrots, and cooked macaroni to the pot. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the mixture is hot and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beefy Mushroom Stroganoff Hamburger Helper
A hearty, comforting twist on classic Hamburger Helper, this recipe combines ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy sauce with pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, and paprika; bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; stir in sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked noodles and sauce mixture; serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southwestern Chipotle Hamburger Helper
A flavorful twist on classic Hamburger Helper, this Southwestern Chipotle version combines the comfort of a hamburger dish with the bold flavors of the Southwest.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 packet Hamburger Helper Southwestern Style
– 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (4 oz)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef according to package instructions.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked ground beef; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Prepare the Hamburger Helper according to package instructions.
5. Combine the cooked ground beef mixture with the Hamburger Helper and stir well.
6. Top with warmed black beans, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Three-Cheese Mac and Beef Hamburger Helper
This comforting one-pot dish combines the flavors of beef, pasta, and three types of cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With its easy preparation and short cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 box Hamburger Helper Three-Cheese Macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the Hamburger Helper according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked Hamburger Helper and stir to combine with the beef.
4. Stir in the olive oil, then add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper
This creamy, cheesy, and savory dish is a twist on the classic hamburger helper recipe. With the added smokiness of BBQ sauce and the crunch of crispy bacon, it’s a meal that will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper mix (cheddar cheese flavor)
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried onion flakes
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef according to package instructions. Drain excess fat.
2. In a separate pot, combine the Hamburger Helper mix and milk. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the cooked ground beef, BBQ sauce, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese to the pot. Stir until combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional crumbled bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Hamburger Helper
A twist on the classic hamburger helper recipe, this Buffalo Chicken version adds a spicy kick from buffalo sauce and shredded chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper mix
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the ground beef according to package instructions for Hamburger Helper. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the buffalo wing sauce and stir until combined.
4. Mix in the shredded cooked chicken, milk, and butter.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the Hamburger Helper mix.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the macaroni is al dente and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Cheesy Italian Sausage Hamburger Helper
A comforting twist on classic Hamburger Helper, this recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in Hamburger Helper mix and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Hamburger Helper
Elevate your comfort food game with this creative twist on classic Hamburger Helper. This recipe combines the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the convenience of a boxed mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Hamburger Helper (Philadelphia-style beef flavor)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Hamburger Helper according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they’re tender.
4. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked Hamburger Helper and beef mixture in a large serving dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Chile Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper
Elevate your classic hamburger helper game with the bold flavors of green chile and melted cheese! This twist on a comfort food classic is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper mix
– 1 can (10 oz) green chile peppers, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the Hamburger Helper mix, diced green chile peppers, and butter to the skillet. Stir until combined.
3. Gradually add the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and stir until melted and well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Gouda and Bacon Hamburger Helper
Elevate your classic hamburger helper with the rich flavors of smoky gouda cheese and crispy bacon. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Smoky Gouda cheese, shredded
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet of Hamburger Helper mix (your choice of flavor)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the Hamburger Helper mix according to the package instructions.
4. Add the Smoky Gouda cheese and crumbled bacon to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pizza Lover’s Hamburger Helper
Get ready to bring the flavors of pizza to your classic hamburger helper dish! This twist on a comfort food classic adds melted mozzarella cheese and savory tomato sauce to make it a meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper mix
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the Hamburger Helper mix, water, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli Hamburger Helper
This recipe adds an Asian-inspired twist to the classic Hamburger Helper, combining the flavors of teriyaki beef and broccoli with a comforting pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper pasta mix
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Hamburger Helper pasta mix according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Add the garlic and broccoli to the skillet and cook until the broccoli is tender.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and shredded cheese in a large serving bowl.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ranch Cheddar Hamburger Helper
Elevate your classic hamburger helper game with the addition of creamy ranch and cheddar flavors! This recipe is a quick and easy twist on a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Hamburger Helper
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the Hamburger Helper contents (including seasonings) to the skillet and stir to combine with the cooked beef.
3. Stir in the ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and butter until well combined.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Beef Noodle Hamburger Helper
This twist on classic Hamburger Helper adds a kick of flavor with spicy sriracha and savory beef, all wrapped up in a comforting noodle dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s sure to please the whole family!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked noodles (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in sriracha sauce; cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles and beef mixture in a large bowl. Serve hot, topped with chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Herb and Feta Hamburger Helper
Elevate your hamburger game with this flavorful twist on a classic comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Mediterranean herb blend (thyme, oregano, rosemary)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked pasta of your choice (e.g., macaroni, penne)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the Mediterranean herb blend and crumbled feta cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cajun Spiced Hamburger Helper with Andouille Sausage
Add a spicy twist to classic hamburger helper with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and smoky Andouille sausage. This hearty, one-pot dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup Hamburger Helper (Cajun flavor)
– 1/2 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup milk
– Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up meat with spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in Hamburger Helper and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime routine with these 20 mouth-watering homemade hamburger helper recipes! From classic cheeseburger pasta to loaded bacon cheeseburger and everything in between, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of mac and beef or something more adventurous like Philly cheesesteak or Mediterranean herb and feta, there’s something for everyone on this list.