Hello there hamburger lovers! Are you tired of eating the same old plain burgers every time? Are you looking for easy-to-make delicious meals that will satisfy your hunger and cravings? Well, look no further! In this article, we have compiled a list of 10 mouth-watering hamburger helper recipes that are easy to prepare and will leave you wanting more.
These hamburger helper dishes are perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to get dinner on the table quickly and effortlessly. They are also great for gatherings and parties, as they can be made in large quantities to feed a hungry crowd. From classic cheeseburger macaroni to spicy taco casserole, there is something for everyone in this list.
Hamburger Helper Recipes: Quick and Easy Dinner Ideas
Looking for quick and easy dinner ideas that won’t break the bank? Hamburger Helper may just be the answer you’re looking for. Here are some delicious hamburger helper recipes to help you get dinner on the table in no time.
Benefits of Making Hamburger Helper
Hamburger Helper has been a staple in American households for decades. It is a versatile meal option that can be customized with a variety of ingredients, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights.
One of the biggest benefits of making Hamburger Helper is that it is affordable. Most of the ingredients used in the recipes are items you likely already have in your pantry or fridge, so it won’t cost you a fortune to make.
Another benefit of making Hamburger Helper is that it is a filling meal. The combination of pasta, ground beef, and sauce makes for a hearty meal that is perfect for feeding a hungry family.
Finally, making Hamburger Helper is easy. Most of the recipes require minimal prep work and can be cooked in a single skillet in less than 30 minutes.
Classic Hamburger Helper Recipe
If you’re new to making Hamburger Helper, the classic recipe is a great place to start. This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and can be customized to suit your tastes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 box of macaroni and cheese
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of milk
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the macaroni and cheese mix, water, and milk to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Creative Hamburger Helper Variations
If you’re looking to switch up your Hamburger Helper game, try one of these creative variations:
Philly Cheesesteak Hamburger Helper: This recipe takes inspiration from the classic Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. Instead of macaroni and cheese, this variation uses egg noodles and is flavored with Worcestershire sauce, bell peppers, and provolone cheese.
Mexican Hamburger Helper: Spicy and flavorful, this variation is perfect for those who love Mexican cuisine. This recipe uses ground beef, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. It is topped with shredded cheddar cheese and served with tortilla chips.
Mac and Cheese Hamburger Helper: If you’re a mac and cheese lover, you’ll love this variation. This recipe combines the classic Hamburger Helper recipe with the flavors of mac and cheese. It uses elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs to give it a delicious cheesy crust.
There you have it, three delicious and easy Hamburger Helper variations that are sure to become family favorites. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try one of the creative variations, Hamburger Helper is a versatile and affordable dinner option that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Hamburger Helper Recipes
Hamburger Helper is a classic American dish that often leaves us feeling guilty for indulging in something so delicious but high in calories. But what if we told you there are ways to make Hamburger Helper healthy and still enjoy its comforting qualities? Here are some tips and recipes for healthy Hamburger Helper options.
Substituting for Healthier Options
One of the easiest ways to make Hamburger Helper healthier is by substituting high-calorie ingredients for healthier alternatives. Here are some examples of swaps that can be made:
- Whole wheat pasta instead of white pasta
- Vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, and carrots to add more nutrients and fiber to the dish
- Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or heavy cream for a healthier way to add creaminess to the dish
- Lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce the amount of saturated fat in the dish
- Reduced-fat cheese or no cheese at all to cut down on calories and saturated fat
By making these simple substitutions, you can significantly reduce the calorie count of your Hamburger Helper dish and make it more nutritious.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you can still enjoy the comforting flavors of Hamburger Helper by using meat substitutes like tofu and lentils. These options provide protein and nutrients without the added saturated fat found in beef.
For example, try using tofu crumbles in place of ground beef in your favorite Hamburger Helper recipe. You can also use lentils for a meaty texture and added fiber. Another great option is to use mushrooms as a “meat” substitute, as they add a rich umami flavor to the dish.
Here’s a recipe for Vegan Lentil Hamburger Helper:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz. whole wheat shells
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the lentils, vegetable broth, almond milk, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
- Cook the whole wheat shells according to the package instructions.
- Once the lentil mixture is cooked, add the cooked whole wheat shells. Stir to combine.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options
If you have dietary restrictions, you don’t have to miss out on the comforting flavors of Hamburger Helper. There are many gluten-free and dairy-free options available that are just as delicious as the original.
For example, try making Zucchini and Ground Turkey Hamburger Helper using gluten-free pasta and almond milk in place of milk and cheese. Or make Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff using gluten-free flour and almond milk instead of dairy.
Here’s a recipe for Zucchini and Ground Turkey Hamburger Helper:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb. ground turkey
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 2 cups gluten-free pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Add the diced zucchinis and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the gluten-free pasta, chicken broth, almond milk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
By following these tips and recipes, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Hamburger Helper without the guilt. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option, a vegetarian or vegan option, or a gluten-free and dairy-free option, there’s a Hamburger Helper recipe out there for you.
Hamburger Helper Recipes for Kids
Looking for quick and delicious meal ideas for your little ones? Hamburger Helper is a popular choice for busy parents who want a tasty dinner that’s easy to make. These hamburger helper recipes for kids are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, and you can boost the nutritional value by adding in some veggies and other healthy ingredients.
Kid-Friendly Classic Recipe
The original Hamburger Helper recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and loved by kids and adults alike. To make this recipe kid-friendly, stick to the basic instructions and use ground beef, macaroni noodles, and the classic Hamburger Helper seasoning mix. You can add some extra cheese or serve with a side of green beans or carrots for some added nutrition.
Fun Recipe Variations for Picky Eaters
If your little ones are picky eaters, it’s time to get creative with some fun recipe variations that they’re sure to love. Try making Cheesy Nachos Hamburger Helper by adding in some diced tomatoes, jalapenos, and shredded cheddar cheese on top. Or, make Pizza Pasta Hamburger Helper by adding some sliced pepperoni, mushrooms, and mozzarella cheese. These variations are still easy to make and will make dinner time more exciting for everyone.
Incorporating Veggies and other Nutritious Foods
If you want to boost the nutritional value of your Hamburger Helper recipes for kids, try adding in some veggies and other healthy ingredients. You can add in some diced carrots or peas for some added fiber and vitamins. Spinach is also a great option for adding some iron and other nutrients. For protein, try using quinoa or tofu instead of ground beef. These additions will make your Hamburger Helper recipes even more delicious and nutritious.
Overall, Hamburger Helper recipes for kids are a great way to get a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner on the table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with some fun variations, your little ones are sure to love this comforting and tasty meal. Add in some veggies and healthy ingredients for some added nutrition, and you’ll have a dinner that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Hamburger Helper Recipes for Parties
Who doesn’t love a good party? And what better way to satisfy hungry guests than with delicious Hamburger Helper dishes that are perfect for feeding a crowd? These recipes are easy to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Large-Batch Classic Recipe
If you’re looking for a tried-and-tested recipe that will never fail to please a crowd, then this large-batch classic Hamburger Helper recipe is the way to go. It’s hearty, flavorful, and can be made in big batches to feed a large group of people. To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cans condensed tomato soup
- 4 cups milk
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make this recipe, start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once the beef is cooked, drain excess fat and add the tomato soup, milk, water, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Add the uncooked macaroni and stir well. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the mixture, covered, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes or until the macaroni is tender. Serve hot and enjoy!
Buffalo Chicken Hamburger Helper Dip
For a fun and unique twist on Hamburger Helper, try this Buffalo chicken dip made with Hamburger Helper as the base. It’s perfect for parties and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 box Buffalo chicken Hamburger Helper
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips or crackers for dipping
To make this recipe, start by preparing the Hamburger Helper according to the package instructions. Once the Hamburger Helper is cooked, add the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, and chopped green onions. Mix everything together well until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are fully combined. Serve the dip hot with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping. Your guests will love the spicy kick of this unique Hamburger Helper dish.
Southwestern Hamburger Helper Skillet
If you’re looking to spice things up at your party, this Southwestern Hamburger Helper skillet recipe is the way to go. It features black beans, corn, and spicy seasonings that will add a little heat to your party food spread. To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 box Southwestern-style Hamburger Helper
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
To make this recipe, start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Once the beef is cooked, drain excess fat and add the water, Hamburger Helper, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and garlic powder. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the mixture, covered, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thickened. Serve the Southwestern Hamburger Helper skillet hot and garnish with chopped cilantro or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
With these Hamburger Helper recipes, you can easily feed a large group of hungry party-goers without breaking the bank. So next time you’re hosting a party, try one of these delicious recipes and watch your guests devour them in no time. Happy cooking!
Happy Cooking and Bon Appétit!
We hope you enjoyed this mouth-watering feast for the senses and are now inspired to get cooking! These recipes are easy to follow and packed with flavor, making them a great choice for a weekday meal or a fun weekend get-together with family and friends. Whatever the occasion, a delicious hamburger helper recipe is always a winner and sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds!
Thank you for taking the time to read through our article. We hope it has given you some new ideas for your next cooking adventure. Don’t forget to come back and check out our other articles for more inspiration and delicious foodie tips. Until next time, happy cooking and bon appétit!
FAQ
1. Are these recipes easy to follow?
Absolutely! These recipes are all designed to be simple and easy to follow, making them a great choice for cooks of all levels.
2. Can these recipes be customized?
Definitely! Feel free to swap out ingredients or adjust the seasonings to your liking. These recipes are great starting points for your own creative twists.
3. Is hamburger helper a budget-friendly meal?
Yes! Hamburger helper is a great choice when you are cooking on a tight budget. Ground beef is affordable, and the other ingredients in these recipes are also very accessible.
4. Can these recipes be prepared in advance?
Some of them can be! Feel free to prepare the ingredients ahead of time, so that when you’re ready to cook, everything is prepped and ready to go.
5. Can these recipes be frozen?
Most of them can be! Just make sure to follow proper freezing and thawing guidelines to ensure that the food stays safe to eat.
6. Is hamburger helper a kid-friendly meal?
Absolutely! Kids love the classic flavors of hamburger helper, and these recipes all have a fun and playful twist that is sure to delight younger palates.
7. Can these recipes be made with other types of meat?
Of course! While these recipes are all designed around ground beef, you could easily swap out the protein for ground chicken, turkey, or pork.
8. Are these recipes healthy?
While they might not be the healthiest meals out there, these recipes are all balanced and packed with nutrients. As with any recipe, the key is to enjoy them in moderation.
9. Can these recipes be made in a slow cooker?
Sure! Just adjust the cooking times and temperatures as needed, and you’ll be well on your way to a delicious slow-cooker meal.
10. How many servings do these recipes make?
Most of these recipes make between 4-6 servings, making them a great choice for feeding families or groups of friends.
