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Homemade Hamburger Helper

Homemade Hamburger Helper: Comforting & Quick Family Meal

Enjoy this Homemade Hamburger Helper for a quick, comforting dinner that satisfies the whole family.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 2 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Protein
  • 1 pound lean ground beef substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
For the Aromatics
  • ½ medium onion use shallots for a milder flavor
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder fresh minced garlic can be used
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste use tomato sauce if needed
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder adjust amount to taste; cayenne can be used for extra heat
  • 3 cups beef broth vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni any small pasta type can be used
For the Creaminess
  • 2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese experiment with different cheese varieties
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Equipment

  • Large Soup Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large soup pot, brown lean ground beef with ½ medium chopped onion over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes.
  2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in 3 cups of beef broth and bring to a rolling boil. Add 1 cup of uncooked elbow macaroni and reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 13-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Once the macaroni is tender, remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of freshly grated cheddar cheese.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 3 months and remember to reheat with added beef broth to restore creaminess.

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