Introduction
Get ready to wow your taste buds with this scrumptious Homemade Hamburger Helper! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish combines hearty flavors with cheesy goodness all in one pan. It’s a comforting dish that can be whipped up in no time, making it a winner for busy evenings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions made easy
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until brown. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let it all blend beautifully for a minute or two.
4. Pour in the beef broth and elbow macaroni. Mix well and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 12 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
6. Sprinkle that lovely shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and stir until it’s melted and gooey.
Each serving offers a cozy bite of cheesy goodness! Quick, comforting, and sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned. Be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions become translucent.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Allow these ingredients to blend together for a minute or two.
Step 4: Combine Broth and Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Mix everything well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for approximately 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Step 6: Add Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dish. Stir until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Notes
Note 1: Ground Beef Substitution
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
Note 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for varied flavors.
Note 3: Vegetable Add-Ins
Add some frozen peas, bell peppers, or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.
Note 4: Leftovers Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Brown the Meat
Begin by cooking ground beef over medium heat until it’s thoroughly browned. This step is essential for developing flavor.
Cook the Aromatics
Add diced onions and minced garlic after the meat is browned. Cooking until the onions are translucent enhances the overall flavor profile.
Mix the Seasonings
Incorporate tomato paste, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Allow these ingredients to blend for a minute or two before moving on to the next steps.
Simmer with Broth and Pasta
Add beef broth and uncooked elbow macaroni, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Covering the skillet helps cook the pasta evenly and absorb flavors.
Finish with Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted. This creates a rich, creamy texture that ties the dish together.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork, but adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat used.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! You can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Homemade Hamburger Helper?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It should be consumed within three months for the best quality.
What can I serve with Hamburger Helper?
Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
