This homemade Hamburger Helper is a one-pot casserole made with ground meat, macaroni and cheese. It's healthier than the boxed version and quick and easy to make!
In a deep skillet, heat up olive oil over medium heat.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Add onion and saute for 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and saute for 2 minutes.
1 yellow onion, 2 cloves of garlic
Add meat and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until no longer pink.
1 lb lean ground beef
Add salt, pepper, chili powder and cumin. Stir in. Add tomato sauce and stir in.
½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, 8 oz can of tomato sauce
Add macaroni and water (or stock) and stir in. Make sure there is no cooked on bits at the bottom of the pan, to preven the dish from burning. If there are, simply scrape it with a wooden spoon. The liquid should help with that.
2 cups elbow macaroni, 3 cups water or stock
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Lower the heat and simmer the dish, covered, for 13 to 15 minutes. Stir it every 5 minutes or so.
Stir in cheese and sour cream if desired.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup sour cream
Notes
You can use water, beef stock or chicken stock OR a mix of both.
You can skip the meat and use 2 cups of beans or lentils.
Please note, that the nutrition value can vary depending on what product you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use calorie counter you are familiar with.