Homemade Gluten Free Hamburger Helper

Y’all, there’s something about the smell of Hamburger Helper simmering on the stove that just screams “comfort food.” But when my little one was diagnosed with a gluten intolerance, I knew I had to figure out a way to recreate that cheesy, beefy goodness without the gluten. After a few tries (and a whole lotta taste-testing by my family!), I finally landed on this homemade gluten free Hamburger Helper recipe. This isn’t just a gluten-free substitute; it’s a flavor-packed, family-friendly meal that’s on the table in under 30 minutes. I promise this will become a staple in your weekly rotation!

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy momma of two, I need dinner to be quick, easy, and something the whole family will actually eat without complaint. This homemade gluten free Hamburger Helper hits all those marks! Here’s why it’s a winner in my book:

• One-Pan Wonder: Less dishes? Yes, please! Everything cooks in one pot, from browning the beef to simmering the pasta.
• Kid-Approved: Cheesy, beefy, and familiar – even the pickiest eaters will gobble this up. I’ve even snuck in extra veggies and they didn’t notice!
• Ready in Under 30 Minutes: From start to finish, you’ll have a hot, satisfying meal on the table in no time. Perfect for those hectic weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups gluten-free beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup gluten-free elbow macaroni (or your favorite gluten-free pasta shape)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a minute. The quality of your ground beef will definitely impact the flavor of your dish, so I always opt for a lean ground beef (around 85/15). It keeps the dish from getting too greasy. And speaking of greasy, make sure to drain the excess fat after browning the beef!

Choosing the right gluten-free pasta is key. Some brands get mushy easily, so I recommend using a brand you trust and that you’ve had success with before. I personally like the brown rice pasta from Trader Joe’s, but any gluten-free elbow macaroni will work.

For the cheese, I like a sharp cheddar for that classic Hamburger Helper flavor. But feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a little pepper jack would be delicious. Use whatever you have on hand!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cookin’! Here’s how to make this easy and delicious gluten-free Hamburger Helper:

1. Step 1: Brown the Beef. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants greasy Hamburger Helper!
2. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now!
3. Step 3: Add the Sauce. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and tomato sauce. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s where all the flavor is!
4. Step 4: Simmer, Simmer. Pour in the gluten-free beef broth (or chicken broth). Add the gluten-free elbow macaroni, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Give it a stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan. After testing this several times, I learned that the simmer time depends on the pasta brand. So keep an eye on it!
5. Step 5: Cheese Please! Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy. Now that’s the cheesy goodness we’re after!
6. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! This stuff is even better the next day, if you can believe it.

Storage & Meal Prep

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This gluten-free Hamburger Helper stores beautifully. Here’s the lowdown on storage and meal prep:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too dry.
• Make-Ahead: You can easily make this ahead of time! Prepare the recipe as directed, let it cool completely, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat as needed.
• Batch Prep: Double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd or to have plenty of leftovers for meal prepping throughout the week.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to switch things up a bit? Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese shreds to make this recipe dairy-free. I’ve tried a few brands, and the Miyoko’s Kitchen brand melts really well.
• Different Protein: Ground turkey or ground chicken would also work well in this recipe.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra veggies! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots would be a great addition. I usually sautee them with the onions and garlic.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Different Cheese: Try using a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

You sure can! This is a great make-ahead meal. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up a bit.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

Gluten-free pasta can be a little tricky. Be sure to cook it according to the package directions, but start checking for doneness a few minutes early. You want it to be tender but not mushy. Remember, it will continue to cook a little bit once you remove it from the heat.

Can I use a different type of broth?

Absolutely! If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken broth or even vegetable broth will work just fine. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. I’ve even used bone broth for an extra boost of nutrients.

What if I don’t have diced tomatoes?

No problem! You can use crushed tomatoes or even tomato puree instead. Just adjust the amount of tomato sauce accordingly to get the right consistency.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Oh, honey, is it ever! My kids absolutely love this. It’s cheesy, beefy, and familiar – everything a kid could want. And it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without them even noticing!

How long does it last in the fridge?

Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this?

I don’t recommend freezing this particular recipe. The pasta tends to get a little mushy when thawed. But you can definitely make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days.

Serving Suggestions

This gluten-free Hamburger Helper is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve with a side salad for a little extra freshness.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt on top.
• Sprinkle with extra cheese or a sprinkle of chives.

Well, there you have it, folks! My go-to recipe for homemade gluten free Hamburger Helper. This is more than just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. A taste of childhood, made healthier and just as comforting. So gather your family, get in the kitchen, and create some delicious memories together. I can’t wait to hear what y’all think! Share your results in the comments below, and don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for more easy and delicious family recipes! Happy cooking!

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