Crockpot Hamburger Helper.

Homemade Crockpot Hamburger Helper. Forget the boxed stuff—this is everyone’s childhood favorite dinner, made completely from scratch…and honestly, even easier too. Plus, so much tastier! Think of it as the creamier, cozier, better version of what some of you may remember as a kid. Made with ground beef, pasta, a handful of seasonings, and even some shredded zucchini for a little extra veggie boost. It’s the kind of effortless pasta that’s guaranteed to become a weeknight family staple.

Did you grow up on Hamburger Helper? It wasn’t something my dad ever made for us, but I do remember always seeing that red box sitting in the pantry. Funny enough, my oldest brother swears it was one of his favorite dinners. Maybe he made it for himself? I really should ask him! Either way, it’s not a dish I grew up with, but it somehow feels nostalgic all the same.

For years, my brother begged me to make a homemade version, and many years back, I finally caved. I came up with a stove-top recipe that quickly turned into a family favorite—and honestly, I loved making it. But today? I’ve got something even better. This crockpot version is simpler, creamier, and completely hands-off. Truly effortless comfort food that tastes like pure childhood nostalgia…just upgraded.

These are the details

Ingredients

• ground beef – I use Force Of Nature, 80/20 blend
• onions
• chili powder
• garlic powder
• paprika
• salted butter
• ketchup
• broth
• pasta zucchini
• milk
• cheddar cheese
• fresh parsley or tiny basil leaves

Special Tools

This recipe calls for a crockpot. If you don’t have a crockpot, make this recipe here! Other than that, nothing fancy here!

Steps

Step 1: Set it and go

Set your crockpot to high. Add the beef, onions, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, butter, and ketchup. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Give the meat a quick stir—it will naturally break into pieces as it cooks. Pour in the broth, cover, and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 1–2 hours.

My crockpot can actually cook the raw beef in about an hour on high. It works like magic, I swear!

Step 2: Stir and add the remaining ingredients

Once the beef is done—or when you’re ready to finish—stir in the pasta, zucchini, and whole milk about 20 minutes before serving. I like to add another pinch of salt here too.

Cook until the pasta is just tender. Stir in the cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed.

Step 3: Serve

Spoon the pasta into bowls and top with fresh parsley or basil (straight from the garden if you have it!). Best served right after the pasta is cooked. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a very yummy lunch the next day.

One last tip

If you’d like to make this a freezer meal, cook and freeze just the beef base (without pasta). When ready to serve, thaw in a pot on the stove, add 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, then add the pasta, zucchini, and whole milk. Cook until the pasta is tender, stir in the cheese, and serve. Super easy!

A  few commonly asked Questions:

Looking for other easy family dinners? Here are a few ideas: 

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole

One Pan Autumn Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

Easy Southern Style Baked Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Cheese Stuffed Pasta Bolognese Bake

One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake

Lastly, if you make this Crockpot Hamburger Helper, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!