Introduction
If you are struggling with making a quick and delicious meal for your family, hamburger helper might be the perfect answer. This classic dish is simple to make, budget-friendly, and customizable to your taste. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make hamburger helper, from the classic recipe to different variations that you can try at home. We will also share some tips on how to make hamburger helper healthy, fit for different occasions, and perfect for busy weeknights.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Classic Hamburger Helper
To make classic hamburger helper, you will need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 diced onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Here are the steps to follow:
- Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet until it shimmers.
- Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
- Add the macaroni, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 12-15 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Adding some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a tasty veggie addition.
- Using different spices such as cumin, oregano, or basil to give the dish a new flavor twist.
- Using different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Parmesan to create a unique taste.
- Taco Hamburger Helper: Use taco seasoning instead of chili powder and add a can of drained black beans and a diced red pepper for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream.
- Cheesy Hashbrown Hamburger Helper: Use diced potatoes instead of pasta and add some frozen vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn. Top with extra shredded cheese and chopped bacon for a hearty meal.
- Chicken Hamburger Helper: Use diced chicken breasts instead of beef and add some chopped broccoli and sliced mushrooms for a healthier option. Use chicken broth and Alfredo sauce instead of tomato sauce and beef broth for a creamier taste.
- Try different protein options such as ground turkey, pork, or lamb.
- Use different pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.
- Experiment with different vegetables such as kale, spinach, or butternut squash to create a new flavor combination.
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey instead of regular beef to reduce the calorie and fat content.
- Use low-sodium beef broth and tomato sauce to reduce the sodium content.
- Use whole wheat or vegetable pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient intake.
- Add more vegetables such as kale, spinach, peppers, or carrots to increase the vitamins and minerals content.
- Reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat or skim variety instead.
- Use cooking spray or non-stick pan instead of olive oil to reduce the fat content.
- Reduce the amount of salt and add more natural herbs and spices for flavor.
- Grill or bake the ground beef instead of frying it to reduce the calorie intake.
- Buffalo Chicken Hamburger Helper: Use diced chicken breasts instead of beef and add some hot sauce, celery, and blue cheese for a spicy buffalo flavor. Top with chopped scallions and parsley for a fresh finish.
- Italian Hamburger Helper: Use Italian seasoning instead of chili powder and add some diced tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives for a Mediterranean twist. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil for an Italian-style flavor.
- Vegan Hamburger Helper: Use lentils instead of beef and add some vegetable broth, coconut milk, and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly and gluten-free version. Top with chopped cilantro and lime juice for a zesty taste.
- Add some extra seasoning or spices to create a unique flavor for a potluck or party snack.
- Use different pasta shapes or protein options to create a more filling and satisfying dish for a family dinner.
- Add some fresh herbs or fruit for a refreshing touch for a summer picnic or barbecue.
- One-Pot Hamburger Helper: Use a large pot instead of a skillet and cook everything in one pot. Add some diced carrots and peas for extra nutrients and color.
- Creamy Mushroom Hamburger Helper: Use sliced mushrooms instead of onion, and add some cream of mushroom soup and Worcestershire sauce for a smoother taste. Top with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
- Spicy Sausage Hamburger Helper: Use ground sausage instead of beef and add some diced jalapenos and crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. Top with grated cheddar cheese and sour cream for a rich and indulgent flavor.
- Prep the ingredients ahead of time and freeze them in a ziplock bag for later use.
- Use a slow cooker or Instant pot to make the dish while doing other things.
- Double the recipe and freeze the leftovers in a separate container for a future meal.
To enhance the flavor of your hamburger helper, you can try:
Hamburger Helper with a Twist
If you want to try something different, you can experiment with different ingredients and flavors in your hamburger helper recipe. Here are some variations that you can try at home:
To experiment with different flavors in your hamburger helper recipe, you can:
How to Make Hamburger Helper Healthy
If you want to make hamburger helper with fewer calories, less sodium, and more nutrients, you can try these healthy alternatives:
To make your hamburger helper recipe healthier, you can also try:
Hamburger Helper for Different Occasions
If you want to make hamburger helper for a potluck, picnic, or family dinner, you can try these delicious recipes:
To make your hamburger helper recipe perfect for specific occasions, you can:
Hamburger Helper for Busy Weeknights
If you want to make hamburger helper that requires minimum effort and time, here are some quick and easy recipes that you can try:
To make your hamburger helper recipe easy and hassle-free, you can:
Conclusion
Hamburger helper is a simple and delicious meal that anyone can make. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or want to experiment with different variations, there are many options for you to choose from. By following our step-by-step guide and tips, you can make hamburger helper that is healthy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoy trying different twists on this popular dish and find the perfect recipe that suits your taste.
