Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small shapes like shells, ditalini, or rotini work very well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Note that the pasta will soak up more broth, so add a splash of water or milk when reheating.

Creamy Italian Sausage Hamburger Helper Soup

Name: Creamy Italian Sausage Hamburger Helper Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 cup yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 14 oz crushed tomatoes; 2 cups dry macaroni pasta; 1 tsp dried oregano; 0.5 cup heavy cream; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 0.25 cup parmesan cheese, grated

When the weather turns chilly, I start craving those childhood comfort foods that feel like a warm hug. My mom used to make the boxed version of Hamburger Helper constantly, but as I got older, I started wanting something with a bit more substance and fresh ingredients. This soup is my answer to those cravings. It takes that familiar creamy, cheesy base and swaps the mystery meat for savory Italian sausage, adding a hearty texture that holds up beautifully against the tender pasta.

What I love most is how the starch from the pasta thickens the broth naturally, creating that signature velvety consistency without needing to stand over a roux. I usually reach for a mild Italian sausage, but if you like a little heat, hot sausage works perfectly here. Just remember to taste your broth before adding extra salt, as the sausage and the parmesan provide a lot of sodium on their own. It is the kind of dinner that makes you want to curl up on the couch, and thankfully, it only requires one pot to clean up afterwards.