HOMEMADE HAMBURGER HELPER RECIPE

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Introduction:

Indulge in the nostalgic comfort of a homemade classic with this Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe. Bursting with flavor and simplicity, this dish offers a satisfying twist on the beloved convenience food, allowing you to create a hearty and wholesome meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore the appeal of Homemade Hamburger Helper, share a delicious recipe for crafting it from scratch, and discover why it’s a go-to option for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp ap flour
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp basil
  • 8 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 8 oz pasta of choice, I used farfalle
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cup shredded cheddar
  • 4 oz velveeta, cubed

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet that has a lid cook ground beef over medium-high heat and remove from pan, reserving 2 tbsp of grease.
  2. Add onion & bell pepper, cook 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add flour and stir about 1 minute. Slowly, add in broth, stirring frequently and bringing to a boil. Pour in tomato sauce, seasonings and pasta. Cover with lid and cook until pasta is cooked, about 12-15 minutes. Add more beef broth if needed.
  3. Add in cream & cheeses, stirring until incorporated. Add in ground beef and allow to cook 2 more minutes.

Serving:

  1. Garnish and Presentation: Before serving, garnish the Homemade Hamburger Helper with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. This enhances the presentation and elevates the dish’s appeal.
  2. Side Dish Suggestions: Serve Homemade Hamburger Helper alongside a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread to round out the meal and add variety to the plate. These side dishes complement the hearty flavors of the dish and provide balance to the meal.
  3. Family Style or Individual Servings: Decide whether to serve Homemade Hamburger Helper family-style, straight from the skillet, or portion it into individual servings for a more elegant presentation. Both options are suitable depending on the occasion and preference.
  4. Leftovers as Next-Day Lunch: Leftover Homemade Hamburger Helper makes a delicious next-day lunch option. Pack individual portions in airtight containers and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and satisfying meal.

Storage:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Homemade Hamburger Helper in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
  2. Freezing: Homemade Hamburger Helper can also be frozen for longer storage. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving room for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
  3. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen Homemade Hamburger Helper, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent dryness.
  4. Reviving Leftovers: If the dish becomes slightly dry upon reheating, stir in a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture and freshness. Adjust the seasonings as needed to enhance the flavors before serving.

FAQs:

  1. Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Keep in mind that leaner meats like turkey or chicken may result in a slightly different flavor and texture, but they can still work well in the dish.
  2. Can I Use Different Types of Pasta? While elbow macaroni is traditional for Hamburger Helper, you can experiment with other types of pasta such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
  3. Is it Possible to Make This Recipe Vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Homemade Hamburger Helper by omitting the ground beef and using plant-based alternatives or additional vegetables such as mushrooms, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) to provide protein and texture.
  4. Can I Add Extra Vegetables to the Dish? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or peas. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients to ensure they are cooked through.
  5. How Spicy is This Recipe? This Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe is mild in terms of spice level. However, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet along with the other seasonings to amp up the heat according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion:

Homemade Hamburger Helper is a delightful way to enjoy the familiar flavors of a childhood favorite while embracing the simplicity and satisfaction of homemade cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Try making this Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe for your next dinner and savor the joy of homemade comfort food at its finest.

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