Fall Recipes
HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER Sam Hu | Ahead of Thyme | Total Time: 25 minutes Yield: 4-6 servings
Homemade hamburger helper is a family favorite but you can make a cheaper, healthier, and way tastier version at home. This flavorful pasta dinner features tender elbow macaroni, juicy lean ground beef, and plenty of cheddar cheese to create a delicious cheesy sauce. It’ s a quick and easy dinner ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you are feeling lazy. Try this cheeseburger macaroni pasta tonight!
INGREDIENTS
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 + ½ cups milk
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta, uncooked
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded fresh parsley, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is sizzling hot, about 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Break up beef into small pieces to help even browning. Add onion and garlic and sauté until tender, about 2 minutes. Add tomato paste and mix until well incorporated and season with salt, pepper and paprika. Add milk, beef broth, and uncooked macaroni. Stir well and bring to a boil. Cover the lid and simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well combined. Sprinkle parsley on top and serve immediately.
OTHER TIPS How to store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
How to reheat: Reheat leftover hamburger helper over the stove on medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened up too much in the fridge. You can also reheat in a covered microwave-safe dish on medium heat until warmed through, about 1-3 minutes.
How to freeze: This homemade hamburger helper freezes well too. Once cooled to room temperature, store any leftovers in a freezer-safe airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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