Cheesy Tomatoey Pasta: A Homemade Hamburger Helper Upgrade!

Okay, so I stumbled upon this INSANE Cheesy Shells recipe and had to recreate it with a twist! This is basically Hamburger Helper on steroids, but homemade and packed with even more flavor.

I swapped out the shells for gemelli pasta because I’m obsessed with its unique shape and how it catches every bit of that creamy, cheesy sauce. And let me tell you, this dish is a total game-changer!

Also, I am always toasting my spices, it makes such a difference, flavor wise! Yes, we’re making this from scratch but it’s Super simple, super delicious, and has hardly any cleanup! This is the ultimate comfort food meal!

Why You’ll Love It:

Toasted Spices: We’re taking a flavor shortcut without sacrificing taste. Toasting the spices before adding them to the sauce releases their full potential, creating a depth of flavor that’s out of this world.
Simple and Satisfying: This recipe is all about easy, delicious comfort food. It comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights.
Gemelli Magic: This spiral-shaped pasta is the perfect vessel for soaking up all that cheesy, tomatoey goodness.

Prep Time:10

Cook Time:30

Total Time:40

Ingredients

Avocado oil
1 white onion finely diced
6-8 cloves garlic minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes you can add more if you like heat
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 pound ground beef
3/4 cup tomato sauce
3 cups water
1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon beef
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 cup cream
1 pound gemelli pasta
4 oz freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and saute for one minute. Then add red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is softened. Add in garlic in final minute of sautéing.
Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon. Now add in your paprika, as well. Cook until browned.
Create the Base: Make a well in the center of the ground beef. Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, ketchup, brown sugar, and a touch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Then stir everything together. Allow to cook for 2 minutes.
Cook the Pasta: Add water, bouillon and cream. Bring to a simmer. Add gemelli pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce. Cook until pasta is tender, around 15-17 minutes, testing your pasta.
Cheesy Finish: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly. I usually allow mine to stand off heat for around 3-5 minutes.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings. Garnish with additional cheese, if desired.

Servings: 4

Homemade Hamburger Helper