Hamburger Helper Budget Stretch

Stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor with this comforting Hamburger Helper Budget Stretch recipe, a hearty one-pot meal the whole family will love! Made with savory ground beef, tender macaroni noodles, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, this dish is elevated with pantry staples like paprika, garlic powder, and parsley for a burst of flavor in every bite. Economical yet satisfying, this copycat Hamburger Helper also sneaks in the option of frozen peas for added nutrition. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Serve up this budget-friendly dinner and revel in its ease, flavor, and ability to please even the pickiest eaters. Keywords: Hamburger Helper, budget-friendly meal, one-pot dinner, ground beef recipe, easy weeknight dinner.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni noodles
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the uncooked macaroni noodles, beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, dried parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 4

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

Step 5

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk. Mix until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. If using frozen peas, add them at this stage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they're heated through.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7

Serve hot and enjoy this budget-friendly, comforting meal with your family!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2143.4 grams (2143.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2622

Total Fat 125.90g	161%
Saturated Fat 59.80g	299%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.20g
Cholesterol 433mg	144%
Sodium 5877mg	256%
Total Carbohydrate 221.30g	80%
Dietary Fiber 19.20g	69%
Total Sugars 28.50g
Protein 160.70g	321%

Vitamin D 54IU	269%
Calcium 1209mg	93%
Iron 17mg	92%
Potassium 3237mg	69%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.6%

Protein: 24.2%

Carbs: 33.3%