This homemade hamburger helper is the perfect meal that the whole family can enjoy. Made with ground beef, veggies, and pantry staples, it is oh so hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to be on your table in 30 minutes or less!
8ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white button mushrooms)
3tablespoonstomato paste
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
1teaspoononion powder
1teaspoongarlic powder
½teaspoonblack pepper
3cupslow sodium beef broth
15ouncetomato sauce
12ounceselbow macaroni
2cupsshredded Cabot cheddar cheese (adjust amount to your liking)
Instructions
Brown beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
Add the vegetables. Give it a good stir. Add in tomato paste and seasonings and cook for 5 minutes or so until everything gets well incorporated. Stir frequently.
Stir in the broth and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, making sure to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Once it comes to a boil, add the pasta, cover the pot, reduce heat and simmer. Cook 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally. At this point, set aside a portion for baby.
Stir in cheese. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Notes
The nutrition facts for sodium doesn't include cheese.
If you would like to make this creamier, replace 1 cup of broth with milk of your choice.
Ground beef: you can certainly use chicken or turkey. If you want to make this vegetarian, I suggest adding a 15 ounce can of no-salt-added beans along with the vegetables.
Will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months.