Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe

When it comes to cozy, comforting meals, nothing quite hits the spot like a classic dish prepared with love and care. Today, we're bringing you a delectable recipe straight from the kitchen of Hay Day Family Farm: Homemade Hamburger Helper. This hearty and satisfying dish combines the goodness of ground beef, fragrant spices, creamy cheese, and tender pasta to create a culinary masterpiece that's perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Let's dive right in and uncover the secrets to crafting this mouthwatering delight.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups (8 oz) pasta shells
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions for Homemade Hamburger Helper:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef In a large saucepan with a lid, start by browning the ground beef over medium-high heat. As the beef sizzles and cooks, break it into smaller pieces using a spoon. Once the beef is cooked through and nicely browned, carefully remove it from the pan and set it aside. Don't forget to save about 2 tablespoons of the flavorful grease in the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In the same saucepan, where the beef left behind its delicious essence, cook the chopped yellow onion until it becomes soft and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. When the onions are almost done, add in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until its fragrance fills the air.

Step 3: Create the Base Time to infuse the dish with rich flavors. Add the all-purpose flour to the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring it in to cook for about a minute. This will create a roux that will thicken our sauce. Gradually pour in the low-sodium beef broth, whisking as you do so to ensure the flour blends smoothly. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, letting the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add the Pasta and Sauces Pour in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir this beautifully aromatic mixture, creating a symphony of flavors. Now, add the pasta shells, coating them in the savory sauce. Place the lid on the saucepan and let everything sauté for 12 to 15 minutes. This will allow the pasta to cook and absorb the luscious flavors, so make sure to stir occasionally.

Step 5: Creamy Indulgence Time to elevate the dish to the next level of creaminess. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. As you stir, watch the cheese melt into the sauce, infusing it with rich, velvety goodness.

Step 6: Reunite with the Beef Reintroduce the cooked ground beef back into the pan, allowing it to reheat amidst the creamy, cheesy glory. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring that everything is warmed through.

Step 7: Season and Serve Give the dish a final taste test, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference. Once you're satisfied with the flavors, it's time to serve up this comforting masterpiece. Plate the Homemade Hamburger Helper with pride, and watch as your loved ones gather around to enjoy a meal that's made with heart and soul.

In Conclusion: There you have it - a remarkable recipe that captures the essence of comfort and flavor. From the sizzling ground beef to the creamy cheese sauce, every bite of this Homemade Hamburger Helper from Hay Day Family Farm is an experience worth savoring. So, whether you're in the mood for a warm, family-friendly dinner or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, this recipe has got you covered. Prepare to create lasting memories with this delightful dish, brought to you straight from the heart of the kitchen at Hay Day Family Farm.