Homemade Hamburger Helper is a quick and easy weeknight meal that uses a few simple ingredients. This homemade version of the classic boxed meal is healthier, cheaper, and tastes better than store-bought versions!
Start by browning the ground beef. This can be done in a large frying pan on the stovetop, using oil or cooking spray to coat the bottom of the pan.
What is Hamburger Helper
Hamburger Helper is a brand of packaged meal mixes that contain everything you need to make a quick and easy pasta dish. The mix is combined with meat and milk to create a complete meal that can be cooked in just one pan. The product has been around for more than 50 years and is available in a variety of flavors and meal options.
The basic recipe calls for a combination of ground beef and macaroni in a creamy sauce. You can add a variety of vegetables and spices to customize the meal to your preferences. You can also try adding other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, for a change in flavor. The sauce can be thickened with milk or other liquids, such as water or broth, to make it creamier.
If you want to save time, you can also cook Hamburger Helper in the microwave. To do so, add a little milk to the mix and microwave in short bursts. This helps to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
You can also reheat Hamburger Helper in the oven. To do so, add a few tablespoons of milk to the dish for extra moisture and to thin the sauce. Heat the dish in a covered oven-safe dish for 10 minutes, stirring it halfway through.
Leftover Hamburger Helper can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It can also be frozen for up to 3-4 months. If you freeze the meal, be sure to allow it to cool completely before storing it in the freezer. This will prevent freezer burn and ensure the quality of the food.
How to cook Hamburger Helper
The classic boxed dinner of hamburger helper is a favorite of busy families. It is easy to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. However, making it from scratch is easier and makes for a more flavorful meal. You can even customize it by using different spices and herbs for a more interesting flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who want to avoid MSG or want a healthier version of this popular dish.
This homemade Hamburger Helper is made with ground beef, macaroni noodles, melted cheese, and a delicious sauce. This recipe is an instant pot meal, so you can cook it in just a few minutes! It is also a great recipe for those who are new to instant pot cooking.
To make this hamburger helper, start by browning the ground beef. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat, and add oil or cooking spray. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef, and use a spoon or spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, drain any excess grease.
Next, add the pasta, water, and milk to the pan. Stir to combine. Finally, add the Hamburger Helper noodles and sauce packet. Stir again. Cover the pan, and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook for four minutes. When the timer goes off, use the Quick Release method to release the pressure.
Stir in the melted cheese and serve. The sauce will thicken as the casserole cools, so you can adjust it to your liking by adding more or less milk. You can also add a bit of pepper jack or another blend for a little extra kick. Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Is Hamburger Helper healthy
While many of us grew up eating boxed Hamburger Helper as kids, it is not healthy. The ultra-processed meal is often high in sodium, contains a long list of additives and preservatives to make it shelf-stable, and includes lots of chemicals that are harmful to our bodies. It also lacks the high quality complex carbohydrates and vegetables that should be part of a well-balanced diet.
It is easy to make a healthier version of this classic recipe. This easy dinner is ready in just 30 minutes, and can be made with any ground meat. It is cheesy, packed with flavorful beef, and held together with tender elbow macaroni. It is a dish that everyone will love!
Unlike boxed hamburger helper, this healthier version is low in sodium and has no added chemicals. It is also gluten free and can be prepared in the oven or microwave. It also has more vegetables and high-quality protein, making it a great choice for those who are trying to eat healthily.
To prepare this simple dinner, brown the beef in a large pan. Once it is browned, add the rest of the ingredients to the pan. Stir the mixture, then cover and simmer it for five minutes. Serve the dish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.
If you would like to prepare this meal in the oven, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the mixture in an oven-safe dish and add a few tablespoons of milk to the mix for extra moisture. It is important to stir the mixture halfway through cooking so it doesn’t dry out.
If you prefer to prepare this dish in the microwave, follow the instructions on the package. Most microwave-friendly Hamburger Helper mixes have between 580 and 810 milligrams of sodium per serving. That is close to the maximum amount of sodium recommended for adults each day.
Can you freeze Hamburger Helper
While it may be tempting to stock up on Hamburger Helper for a quick meal, this convenient dinner product is not ideal for your diet. The boxed ingredients contain a high amount of sodium, which can lead to weight gain and heart disease. However, there are ways to make your favorite Hamburger Helper recipes healthier by using a variety of fresh vegetables and spices. This can also help you reduce your sodium intake and improve your overall health.
To make your Hamburger Helper recipe more nutritious, you can substitute the beef with chicken or tofu, which are both good sources of protein and iron. You can also add in additional veggies, such as corn or carrots, for added nutrients and flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create a more unique taste. Try adding cumin and chili powder for a Mexican-inspired flavor or basil and oregano for an Italian-style dish.
If you have leftovers of your Hamburger Helper, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To avoid freezer burn, it is important to cook the pasta to al dente before freezing. It is also recommended to use a container with an airtight seal. You can then label and date the frozen Hamburger Helper and keep it in the freezer until you are ready to reheat it.
To reheat your frozen Hamburger Helper, simply place it in the microwave and heat for 10-12 minutes. To ensure that the pasta does not overcook, you should stir it frequently during heating. You can also add a small amount of water to the mixture to keep it from drying out while reheating.
What are some Hamburger Helper recipes
There are many different Hamburger Helper recipes, with variations including adding veggies or spices to the recipe. Some people even add a bit of bacon or fried onions to the dish for extra flavor and richness. While these additions aren’t necessary, they can make the meal more interesting and fun to eat. For example, try adding a little nutmeg to your dish for a hint of spice or thyme for an herb-flavored twist.
Homemade Hamburger Helper is an easy and delicious meal that can be made in a single pan. It is made with lean ground beef, pasta, and a creamy sauce that can be easily adapted to your taste. This dish is healthy, easy to make, and perfect for busy families.
To prepare this dinner, start by browning the ground beef. You can do this in a frying pan over medium high heat with some oil or cooking spray. Cook the beef until it is browned all over and no pink remains. Once the meat is cooked, drain any excess grease from the pan.
Next, add the pasta and half of the shredded cheese to the pan. Stir well to combine the ingredients and allow them to simmer for a few minutes. Finally, top the dish with the remaining shredded cheese and let it melt before serving.
This easy Hamburger Helper is an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner. It can be eaten as is or with a variety of sides. Some ideas for sides include a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. You can also use other types of ground meat, such as chicken, turkey, or sausage, to change up the flavor.