January 27, 2019

Better Hamburger Helper

Name: Homemade Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp oil of choice; 1.5 cups celery (diced); .5 cup onion (chopped); 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 14.5oz cans diced tomatos (I prefer fire roasted for bump of flavor); 5 cups cooked macaroni pasta (Dry, it should be almost a 16oz box ); 1 lb American cheese (I used about 15/16 slices, add about that and add more if you want more); salt/pepper (to taste )

This recipe is a more personal one to me, as this was something my mom made when I was a child. It was a big favorite of mine! It’s one of those meals that when I smell it, I’m flooded with happy feelings. I finally decided to make it myself after having been craving it for a while. I realized the last time I had had it was when I was a kid! Just the smell of it brought me back.

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I liken it to Hamburger Helper because it has all of the base ingredients. Only, this is homemade vs. the majority of ingredients coming from one box. It’s insane how easy it is. It’s one of those meals that’s even better the next day. You will have enough to last you a couple nights of dinner, so for those who meal plan and have busy weeknights, this is perfect for you!

Also, don’t let the celery scare you! I don’t think many people realize that celery is great to cook with! I assure you, the flavor works!

I really hope you enjoy this dish as much as I do.

What meal brings back warm & happy feelings for you?

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Author admin

Ingredients

1 Tbsp oil of choice
1.5 cups celery diced
.5 cup onion chopped
1 lb lean ground beef
2 14.5oz cans diced tomatos I prefer fire roasted for bump of flavor
5 cups cooked macaroni pasta Dry, it should be almost a 16oz box
1 lb American cheese I used about 15/16 slices, add about that and add more if you want more
salt/pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the macaroni pasta according to package directions
While the pasta is cooking, heat the oil over med-high heat in a large pot
Add in the ground beef & brown
When the beef is browned, remove some of the liquid/fat if there is more than a couple of tablespoons there & stir in the celery & onion
Cook for a few minutes, until the celery & onion have softened
Stir in the cans of tomatoes, & bring to a simmer
Stir in the cooked macaroni pasta
Break up the American cheese into small portions & add to the pot
Stir frequently so the cheese melts & makes a creamy sauce
Add salt/pepper to taste
Serve & enjoy!