Homemade Hamburger Helper | One Skillet Meals

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories, while processed cheese is often cheaper.

beef broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon

Vegetable broth is lower in fat, and bouillon is a cost-effective alternative.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: pasta of choice

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while other pasta types may be more affordable.

Brown 1.5 pounds of ground turkey in a skillet.

Add 1/4 cup chopped onion and 1/4 cup chopped green peppers to the turkey.

Season the meat with garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, salt, and red pepper flakes.

Let the meat brown, then add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes.

Add 1 cup of chicken broth, 2.5 cups of milk, and 1 teaspoon of paprika to the skillet.

Stir everything until well incorporated.

Add 8 ounces of shells pasta to the mixture and stir to ensure the shells are submerged in the liquid.

Cover the skillet and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring periodically to prevent sticking or scorching.

Taste the pasta to check for doneness and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Once the pasta is done, add 1/4 cup of whipping cream and 2 tablespoons of salted butter.

Add 1.5 cups of shredded cheese (1 cup mild cheddar and 1/2 cup sharp cheddar) and stir until melted.

Allow the dish to simmer for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens