Copycat Hamburger Helper Cheesy Beef Pasta Mix
This Copycat Hamburger Helper Cheesy Beef Pasta Mix brings back the classic comfort of creamy, cheesy pasta with a homemade twist—no mystery packets here. Just add beef, water, and simmer for a budget-friendly skillet dinner the whole family will love.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup Copycat Hamburger Helper Base Mix
- 1 cup powdered cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups dried elbow or shell pasta
Instructions
- Brown 1 lb ground beef in a large skillet. Stir in jar mix and 4 cups water (or 3 cups water + 1 cup milk for creamier sauce). Bring to boil, reduce heat, and simmer 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
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.