Copycat "Hamburger Helper"

This weekend was full of some of our favorite comfort foods. I loved hamburger helper as a kid, but as an adult, I've started to research and see how horrible some prepackaged foods can be. They're full of chemicals and preservatives that in my honest opinion, I really don't want to put into my body. That's a big part of the reason I've been so motivated to learn how to cook. I like to be in control of what goes in my food, which is one of the really great things about this recipe. You get to be in control of what ingredients go into what you eat. This recipe is quick, easy, and makes a great dinner! So let's get to the point, "hamburger helper", but make it healthy.  Be sure to let me know if you're making any of these recipes! Tag me on Instagram (@lifewithsarahdavis) or on Facebook (@SarahElizabeth)! 

This one is made with beef-less ground and vegetable stock,
which makes it a vegan meal! 

Author: Sarah Davis

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Servings: 4

Keywords: Hamburger helper, dinner, quick dinner, easy dinner, fast dinner

Ingredients:

• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can petite diced tomatoes 
• 1 pound ground meat (chicken, turkey, beef, beef-less ground, whatever you like!)
• 3 cups broth (chicken, beef, vegetable, whatever you like!)
• 1 cup macaroni
• salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a couple handfuls of cheese

Instructions:

1. Add olive oil to a pot or pan (that you have a lid for!) and begin to heat over medium low heat.

2. Chop your onion and garlic and add to the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly soft.

3. Add crushed red pepper and oregano/Italian seasoning to the pan and cook for another minute.

4. Add your ground meat of choice to the pan. Brown and cook through.

5. Once your meat is cooked, add tomato paste. Mix well to combine and cook for 1 minute.

6. Add your diced tomatoes (with the liquid), broth, and macaroni. Stir, cover, and reduce to simmer.

7. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and your macaroni is cooked.

8. Add salt and pepper to taste (optional: Stir in a few handfuls of cheese) then serve!