This slow cooker hamburger helper is a comforting, family-style meal made with tender ground beef, macaroni, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce. Everything comes together right in the slow cooker, making it an easy, hands-off dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does most of the work, the flavors have time to blend beautifully, and the result is a rich, cheesy pasta dish the whole family will enjoy. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and made with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb lean ground beef
½ medium onion, finely diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups low-sodium beef broth
1½ cups milk
1½ cups tomato pasta sauce
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 cups dry uncooked elbow macaroni (about 360 g)
½ cup shredded cheese
Directions
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to a 4–6 quart slow cooker.
Add the diced bell pepper, garlic, beef broth, milk, tomato pasta sauce, salt, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the mixture is hot.
About 15 minutes before serving, switch the slow cooker to high and stir in the uncooked macaroni. Cover and cook until the pasta is al dente, stirring once or twice. If needed, add up to 1 cup additional broth or milk to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
Stir in the shredded cheese, cover for 2 to 3 minutes until melted, then stir again and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes. Cooking time is 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high, plus about 15 minutes for the pasta.
Variations
You can add extra vegetables such as shredded carrots, zucchini, or spinach for more color and nutrition.
For a creamier texture, increase the cheese to ¾ cup.
If you enjoy more heat, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder.
Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a small splash of milk or broth and warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the pasta may soften slightly after thawing.
FAQs
Can I cook the pasta from the beginning?
It’s best to add the pasta at the end so it doesn’t overcook or become mushy.
What type of cheese works best?
A mild or medium shredded cheese melts smoothly and blends well with the sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it fully and reheat when ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s mild, comforting, and very kid-friendly.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, as long as it has a similar cooking time and weight.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir once or twice during the last cooking stage after adding the pasta.
Can I reduce the sodium?
Use low-sodium broth and adjust the salt to taste.
What if the sauce is too thick?
Stir in a little extra milk or broth until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough to hold the increased volume.
Does this recipe work for meal prep?
Absolutely, it stores and reheats well for quick meals during the week.
Conclusion
Slow cooker hamburger helper is a reliable, comforting meal that brings together simple ingredients in an easy, hands-off way. With its rich flavor, tender pasta, and creamy sauce, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again for stress-free family dinners.
This Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper is a hearty, cheesy one-pot meal made with ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners with minimal prep and maximum comfort.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time:6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Slow Cooker
Cuisine:American
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
½ medium onion, finely diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups low-sodium beef broth
1½ cups milk
1½ cups tomato pasta sauce
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 cups dry uncooked elbow macaroni (about 360 g)
½ cup shredded cheese
Instructions
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned and soft. Drain excess fat if needed.
Transfer the beef mixture to a 4–6 quart slow cooker.
Add bell pepper, garlic, broth, milk, tomato pasta sauce, salt, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until vegetables are tender and mixture is hot.
About 15 minutes before serving, switch to high and stir in uncooked macaroni. Stir once or twice while it cooks.
If needed, add up to 1 cup more broth or milk to help pasta cook evenly.
When pasta is al dente, stir in shredded cheese. Cover for 2–3 minutes to melt, then stir and serve warm.
Notes
Add extra veggies like carrots, zucchini, or spinach for nutrition.
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
To make it creamier, increase cheese to ¾ cup.
Stir pasta occasionally during the last stage to prevent sticking.
