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–+ servings
Cooked pasta in a large dutch oven with fresh parsley and a large orange spatula
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5 from 112 votes

Homemade Hamburger Helper

By: Min Kwon | MJ and Hungryman
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!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
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Ingredients 

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white button mushrooms)
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 15 ounce tomato sauce
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded 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.

Nutrition

Calories: 377kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 179mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: -17g | Vitamin A: 446IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 4mg
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