Easy Homemade Hamburger Helper

Step 1

Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2

Heat a large pot over medium heat with the oil (or a splash of broth). Once hot, sauté the onion for 1-2 minutes until soft, then add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds.

Step 3

Stir in the ground beef and spices, breaking it down with your spoon/spatula as it browns. Cook the meat until completely browned (3-4 minutes).Optionally drain any extra grease from the meat if preferred.

Step 4

Stir in the tomato paste, add the broth, and bring it to a boil over high heat.

Step 5

Once it's boiling, add the pasta to the pan and reduce the heat to medium-high.

Step 6

Allow the pasta to cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's tender and most excess liquid is absorbed.Adding a lid is a good idea. If you notice it looks too dry, add about ½ more broth.

Step 7

Meanwhile, shred the cheddar cheese.

Step 8

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cheddar off the heat – the residual heat should melt it. Leave it to rest for just a few minutes, then enjoy!Give it a final taste test before serving, and adjust any seasonings to taste.