Ever had a meal that’s so satisfying it feels like a warm hug?

This Gluten Free Hamburger Helper perfectly captures that feeling! It’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly quick to whip up. Plus, it all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Say goodbye to boxed mixes and hello to a homemade version that will have your family asking for seconds!

Why make this recipe?

Why should you give this recipe a shot?

Easy Cleanup: Who wants more dishes? Not you, my friend! Just one pan, and you’re done!
Budget-Friendly: It uses simple, everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Family-Approved: Kids adore it! Who can resist cheesy pasta?

With this kind of appeal, you can’t go wrong. Trust me, it’s dinner magic!

Ingredients:

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

1 lb lean ground beef
2 cups gluten free elbow macaroni or small shells
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups warm beef broth
1 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp gluten free flour blend
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal:

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Sprinkle the gluten-free flour blend over the mixture and stir for one minute.
Gradually add warm beef broth and milk while whisking to create a smooth sauce.
Stir in the gluten-free pasta, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender.
Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar until melted.

How to make Gluten Free Hamburger Helper (Overview)

Making this dish is so easy, even on a busy weeknight. Here’s how it goes:

Start by browning that beef until it’s perfectly cooked.
Toss in the aromatic onion and garlic for a flavor burst.
Whisk in your liquids and the gluten-free flour to create a dreamy sauce.
Pop in the pasta and let everything simmer together, soaking up all that deliciousness!
Finally, melt in the cheese for that extra touch of creamy goodness.

Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!

How to serve Gluten Free Hamburger Helper

Serve this dish hot, and watch it disappear! It’s a beautiful medley of cheesy macaroni nestled with savory ground beef. For extra flair, try:

Garnishing with chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Adding a crispy side salad to balance the creaminess.
Pairing it with garlic bread to soak up all that yummy sauce!

The aroma wafting from your kitchen? Pure comfort food bliss!

How to store Gluten Free Hamburger Helper

Leftovers are a delight! Store the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to stretch it longer, pop it in the freezer, where it can last up to 3 months.

For reheating, just toss it back in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of milk to loosen it up if needed! Make-ahead tip: You can prep everything in advance and store it separately until it’s time to cook.

Tips to make Gluten Free Hamburger Helper

Here are some quick insider tricks to level up your dish:

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth for a flavor twist!
If you love spice, add some red pepper flakes!
Mix in some frozen peas or spinach when simmering for added nutrition.
Use pre-cooked meat for a super speedy option; just heat it through!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try these fun twists:

Make it vegan by using plant-based ground meat and almond milk!
Add in sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies.
For a kick, stir in some salsa or hot sauce!

FAQs

Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or meat alternatives work great.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it but hold off on adding the cheese until you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Totally! Just store it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a quick meal ready whenever you need it.

This Gluten Free Hamburger Helper will become your go-to comfort dish!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Gluten Free Hamburger Helper

This creamy, comforting Gluten Free Hamburger Helper is a quick, one-pan meal that your family will love.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the main dish

1 lb lean ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
2 cups gluten free elbow macaroni or small shells
1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Can substitute with dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.
2 cups warm beef broth Can swap with vegetable broth for a flavor twist.
1 cup milk or dairy-free alternative Use almond milk for a vegan option.
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced Toasting the garlic enhances flavor.
2 tbsp gluten free flour blend
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Preparation

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Sprinkle the gluten-free flour blend over the mixture and stir for one minute.
Gradually add warm beef broth and milk while whisking to create a smooth sauce.
Stir in the gluten-free pasta, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender.
Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar until melted.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen it up if needed. You can prep ingredients in advance and store them separately.