why make this recipe
Crockpot Hamburger Helper is a simple and hearty meal perfect for busy days. This dish combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese into a comforting one-pot meal. The best part is that it cooks itself while you go about your day. It’s a great way to feed your family without spending hours in the kitchen.
how to make Crockpot Hamburger Helper
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or similar)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: additional seasonings (e.g. Italian seasoning, paprika)
Directions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- In a crockpot, add the cooked beef mixture, uncooked pasta, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Stir to combine and cover.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until pasta is cooked through.
- Before serving, mix in shredded cheese until melted. Serve warm.
how to serve Crockpot Hamburger Helper
Serve Crockpot Hamburger Helper warm in bowls. You can sprinkle additional cheese on top or serve it with a side salad or bread for a complete meal. It’s great for family dinners or gatherings.
how to store Crockpot Hamburger Helper
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Crockpot Hamburger Helper
- To add more flavor, try mixing in some extra seasonings like Italian herbs or garlic powder.
- You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
variation
You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by using plant-based ground meat or omitting the meat altogether and adding more vegetables. Adjust the broth and seasonings to your taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of small pasta you prefer, like penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
2. Is this easy to make ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, just add them to the crockpot and let it cook while you’re away.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients. Just make sure your crockpot has enough capacity to handle the extra amount. It may take a little longer to cook, so check the pasta for doneness.
Crockpot Hamburger Helper
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or similar)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: additional seasonings (e.g. Italian seasoning, paprika)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- In a crockpot, add the cooked beef mixture, uncooked pasta, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Stir to combine and cover.
Cooking
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until pasta is cooked through.
- Before serving, mix in shredded cheese until melted. Serve warm.