Skip the boxed mix and make this homemade Green Chile Hamburger Helper that’s richer, cheesier, and packed with bold Southwestern flavor. Tender pasta, savory ground beef, roasted green chiles, and a creamy cheddar sauce come together in one skillet for a comforting meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and hearty, making it an instant family favorite.
What makes this version stand out is the addition of roasted green chiles, which bring a mild smoky heat that perfectly complements the rich beef and creamy cheese sauce. Every bite is loaded with tender pasta coated in a velvety sauce, juicy seasoned beef, and just enough spice to keep you coming back for another forkful.
Cooking everything in one pan allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors while creating a thick, creamy sauce without a sink full of dishes. As the cheese melts into the skillet, it transforms into an irresistibly gooey coating that clings to every piece of pasta, making this the ultimate comfort food.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a homemade alternative to a childhood classic, this Green Chile Hamburger Helper delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear as quickly as you serve it.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup roasted diced green chiles
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2½ cups beef broth
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Extra roasted green chiles
- Sour cream
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Fresh cilantro
