One Pan Gluten Free Hamburger Helper (Healthy & Easy Recipe)

This One Pan Gluten Free Hamburger Helper is a cozy, healthier version of the classic boxed favorite we all remember from childhood. It’s made from scratch with simple pantry ingredients, cooks up in just one pot, and is ready to enjoy in about 30 minutes. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor — it’s comfort food done the gluten-free way!

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Imagine tender gluten-free pasta simmered in a rich, savory sauce made with ground beef, onions, and spices — then finished with melty cheddar cheese. It’s everything you love about the original Hamburger Helper, but fresher, lighter, and better for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally gluten free – perfect for anyone avoiding gluten but craving comfort food.
• One pan, minimal cleanup – all the magic happens in a single skillet.
• Family-friendly – picky eaters love this one!
• Customizable – swap the beef, change the cheese, or sneak in veggies.

A Childhood Favorite, Reimagined

Growing up, Hamburger Helper was one of those quick-fix dinners that somehow tasted like home. But those boxed versions are packed with additives and, unfortunately, not gluten free. This homemade version keeps the nostalgic flavor and creamy texture but skips the unnecessary stuff.

By making your own gluten free hamburger helper, you have total control over the ingredients. You can make it dairy-free, sneak in extra veggies, or tweak the seasoning to match your taste.

It’s basically a cozy beef-and-pasta skillet — think of it as a cross between mac and cheese and bolognese — rich, cheesy, and ridiculously satisfying.

Before You Start

• Choose your beef: 83% lean gives a rich flavor, while 90% lean is lighter.
• Pick your pasta: Different gluten free pastas cook at different rates. Rice, corn, or chickpea-based pasta all work — just keep an eye on the texture.
• Swap the protein: Not a beef fan? Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need for this one pan dinner:

• Butter: Adds richness to the base of the sauce.
• Onion & garlic: Build the savory flavor foundation.
• Ground beef: The star of the show — hearty and full of flavor.
• Tomato paste: Deepens the sauce and adds that signature Hamburger Helper tang.
• Low sodium beef broth: Provides the liquid to cook the pasta and create the sauce.
• Milk: Keeps it creamy — almond milk works great for dairy-free!
• Gluten free pasta: Any short pasta shape like elbows, shells, or penne will work.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder bring warmth and spice.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for that irresistible creamy finish.
• Chives & red pepper flakes: Optional, but perfect for garnish and flavor.

How to Make Gluten Free Hamburger Helper

Step 1 – Sauté the onion
Start by heating butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until soft and translucent.

Step 2 – Add the garlic and beef
Stir in minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is mostly browned, breaking it up as it cooks. A little pink is fine — it’ll finish cooking with the pasta.

Step 3 – Add tomato paste
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. This caramelizes it slightly, giving the sauce a deeper, richer flavor.

Step 4 – Add liquids and pasta
Pour in the beef broth, milk, gluten free pasta, and seasonings. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 5 – Add cheese
Once the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until creamy and smooth.

Step 6 – Garnish and serve
Top with chopped chives and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy that nostalgic, comforting flavor!

Troubleshooting Tips

Too much liquid?
If the pasta is cooked but there’s still too much liquid, whisk together 1 tablespoon of gluten free flour with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Too little liquid?
If the liquid evaporates before the pasta is done, add another ½–1 cup of warm beef broth. Simmer gently until the pasta reaches your desired texture.

Make It Dairy Free

You can easily make this gluten free hamburger helper dairy free! Swap butter for olive oil or vegan butter, and use your favorite non-dairy milk and shredded cheese alternative. Almond milk and a dairy-free cheddar melt beautifully here.

Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition

If you like to pack in more nutrients, toss in a handful of chopped spinach, peas, or finely diced carrots while the pasta simmers. They blend seamlessly into the dish without altering the flavor.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

(Note: Gluten free pasta tends to soften after reheating, but the flavor remains just as delicious!)

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