Copycat Hamburger Helper Base Mix
This Copycat Hamburger Helper Base Mix is the thrifty, homemade version of boxed skillet dinners. With one scoop, you can turn pasta and a pound of meat into creamy, comforting meals in minutes. Store the mix in a jar or airtight container, then build it into 7 different flavor variations for endless weeknight dinners.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 ⅓ cups nonfat dry milk powder
- 1 ⅛ cups cornstarch
- ⅓ cup beef bouillon powder
- 2 ½ Tbsp dried onion flakes
- 1 ¼ tsp dried basil
- 1 ¼ tsp dried thyme
- 1 ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 ½ Tbsp dried parsley
- 1 ¼ Tbsp garlic powder
Instructions
- n a large bowl, whisk together all ingredients until well blended.
- Transfer to a quart mason jar or airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place.
- To use: Measure 1 cup of mix per skillet meal. Add to 1 lb browned ground beef and 4 cups water (or water + milk combo). Stir in 2 cups of dried pasta and simmer until pasta is tender and sauce thickens (about 12–15 minutes).
Notes
Here’s where the fun begins. On This Old Baker, you’ll find seven distinct varieties built from the Copycat Hamburger Helper Base Mix. Each one has its own character, and you can batch them as jar gifts or just keep them stacked in your own pantry.
- Cheesy Beef Pasta – The classic orange-hued comfort food, recreated with real cheddar cheese powder and a hint of paprika.
- Creamy Tomato Basil – Cozy skillet pasta with a creamy tomato base and a sprinkle of Italian herbs.
- Taco Mac Skillet – A zesty Tex-Mex version loaded with taco seasoning, corn, and peppers.
- Cheddar Bacon Ranch – Smoky, cheesy, and tangy all at once—this one’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Stroganoff Style – Rich and creamy with sour cream powder and mushroom flavor, perfect with egg noodles.
- Chili Mac – Hearty, spiced, and comforting, with beans and chili powder bringing the warmth.
- Pizza Pasta – A playful blend with tomato, Italian seasoning, and pepperoni minis—pizza night in a skillet.