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Homemade Hamburger Helper

Homemade Hamburger Helper: Quick Comfort Food for Everyone

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Homemade Hamburger Helper is a delicious, quick, and budget-friendly comfort food that can be customized to fit everyone’s tastes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dish
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil Can replace with olive oil for added flavor.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1 medium Onion Diced small for even cooking.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced is preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can substitute with canned diced tomatoes for more liquid.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Freshly ground is recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can enhance the flavor.
  • 1 cup Milk Whole milk is ideal.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth or Water Stock is preferred for richer taste.
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Pasta Gluten-free pasta can be used.
  • 1 to 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Consider mixing yellow and white cheddar.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Hamburger Helper
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  5. Mix in the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring for another minute.
  6. Pour in the milk and beef broth, stirring to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it's fully submerged, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Once the pasta is tender, remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  9. Optionally, sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish is customizable; feel free to add vegetables or spice it up with jalapeños. Leftovers keep well for future quick meals.

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