🍲 Homemade Hamburger Helper

Ingredients (4 servings):

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup milk

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or 1 ½ cups tomato sauce for smoother texture)

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef.

4. Pour in beef broth, milk, and diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce). Stir well.

5. Add the uncooked pasta, bring mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

6. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.

7. Garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve warm.