Homemade Hamburger Helper

  • Preparation 15 min
  • Cooking 25 min
  • Servings 6
  • Freezing Absolutely

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Homemade Hamburger Helper

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut in mini cubes (1 cup / 250 ml)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 big garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, cut in mini cubes (1 cup / 250 ml)
  • 1 lb (450 g) medium-lean ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) paprika
  • 1 1/2 cup (375 ml) milk
  • 1 1/2 cup (375 ml) low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can (398 ml) Hunt’s tomato sauce
  • 1 lb (450 g) uncooked rotini
  • 2 cups (500 ml) grated sharp cheddar
  • Salt and ground pepper

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Preparation

  • In a big saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil along with the carrots, onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper, stir, then cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.
  • Add the zucchini and keep cooking for 3 minutes.
  • Add the ground beef and sear it, breaking it up with a spoon, for 3 to 4 minutes, until the meat is still slightly pink. You sear it, you don’t cook it through: it finishes cooking in the sauce. Drain off the fat.
  • Except for the cheese, add the rest of the ingredients, then season with salt and pepper. Stir well, cover and bring to a boil. Reduce to medium-low heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir from time to time. ***If all the liquid has evaporated but the pasta isn’t cooked through, add about ¼ cup (60 ml) of milk, stir, then keep cooking for a few minutes.
  • Remove from the heat and add the cheese. Stir to melt, then serve right away! Want it even creamier? Pour in a bit more milk and stir again!