This Bacon Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper checks all the boxes for a quick, hearty dinner that taste like a burger in a bowl. So, whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or looking for a dish the entire family will love, this recipe brings comforting flavors to the table with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love this Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep, easy-to-follow instructions, and a cook time of under 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish fast which makes it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It brings together two classic comfort foods, bacon and cheeseburgers, and that alone is enough to please the entire family.
- Less Dishes: This dish can be made with 2 pans, making clean up a breeze.
- Healthier Alternative: This homemade version is perfect for anyone looking to eliminate all the artificial flavors included in the boxed version of this dish.
- Delicious Leftovers: This is one of those recipes that can taste even better then next day, making it perfect if you like having leftovers for lunch.
Simple Ingredients
- Ground Beef
- Elbow Macaroni Pasta
- Yellow Onion
- Minced Garlic
- Tomato Sauce
- Half and Half
- Cheddar Cheese
- Bacon
- Montreal Steak Seasoning
How To Make Homemade Hamburger Helper
Cook pasta per package instructions. In a large skillet over medium high heat add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook until no pink is visible within the meat then add the minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds. Drain off any excess grease and then season the meat with Montreal steak seasoning.
Add tomato sauce, shredded cheese and half and half to skillet. Stir to Combine.
On low heat, mix until cheese is melted. Add the cooked pasta and bacon crumbles then stir to combine. Serve & enjoy!
Tips And Tricks For Bacon Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese does not melt as smoothly, so for a creamier sauce, grate your own cheddar.
- Charbroiled Flavor: Try adding a dash of liquid smoke for an extra kick and natural smoke flavor.
- Customize It: Feel free to add extra toppings like jalapeños, tomatoes, or any other toppings you would throw on your burger.
- Use Freshly Cooked Bacon: While bacon bits will work, this recipe taste best when using freshly cooked, crispy bacon.
Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish for a spicy kick.
- Low Carb Version: Replace the pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a low-carb, keto- friendly option.
- Make It Loaded: Top with crispy tater tots, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes after cooking for a “loaded” burger feel.
How To Store Leftovers
- Let It Cool: Before storing, allow the food to cool to room temperature. Avoid letting it sit out for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. This helps prevent the food from drying out and keeps it fresh for longer.
- Refrigeration: Store the container in the fridge. Leftover Hamburger Helper will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze this meal, it’s best to cook and freeze the meat mixture then cook fresh pasta when you are ready to eat. Frozen pasta tends to be mushy when reheated.
If you gave this recipe a try, drop a comment below! I love reading your feedback!
Still hungry? Check out a few more of my favorites:
Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs
Adjust Servings people
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 cups elbow pasta
- ½ yellow onion diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- ½ cup half and half
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 10 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 teaspoon Montreal Steak Seasoning
Instructions
- Cook pasta per package instructions. In a large skillet over medium high heat add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook until no pink is visible within the meat then add the minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds. Drain off any excess grease and then season the meat with Montreal steak seasoning.
- Add tomato sauce, shredded cheese and half and half to skillet. On low heat, mix until cheese is melted. Add the cooked pasta and bacon crumbles then stir to combine. Serve & enjoy!
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
I made this recipe tonight and boy was it a hit. :). No left overs. :).