Hooked up hamburger pasta
A grown-up version of the classic Hamburger Helper, featuring ground beef, fresh vegetables, and real Cheddar cheese in a creamy pasta dish. Made with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic combined with a rich cream sauce, this comforting homemade meal delivers authentic flavors without the powdered cheese of the original.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a big pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering. Add both bell peppers, the onion, and minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Timer: 5m - 3
Add the ground beef and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, breaking up the meat into small pieces and stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat from the pan, leaving the meat and vegetables in the pan.
Timer: 10m - 4
Reduce the heat to medium and add the tomato paste to the pan, stirring frequently, until the tomato paste is evenly distributed and fully incorporated. Pour in the heavy cream, add the Cheddar, and stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
Timer: 4m - 5
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat the pasta evenly. Simmer for 3 minutes to heat through. Serve hot, sprinkled with parsley.
Timer: 3m