Cora's Cottage

Fast, single-dish meals can be a great asset to any recipe box, especially when life gets busy. This homemade spin on a Hamburger Helper is great for anyone who loves a bit of bite in their meals. 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast: This recipe is quick for an on-the-go family!

Single Dish: While this recipe makes a whole meal, it only uses one skillet.  We love recipes that minimize the dishes!

Simple: This recipe uses simple ingredients, while still packing a nutritious punch.

Tips & Tricks

Any ground meat will work.  I have used wild game, beef, and pork.

If the noodles are not fully cooked, but all the liquid has been absorbed or cooked off, add a little bit more to allow the noodles to fully cook without scorching the dish.

Canned tomatoes will work just fine if you do not have fresh.  Do not drain the canned tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.

Tone down the spice by leaving out the red pepper flakes.

Mozzarella is my favorite cheese to add, but you can add any cheese.

Pairings

Garlic Bread or Toast

Tools

Skillet

Measuring Cups

Measuring Spoons

Ingredients

Ground beef

Onions, diced

Red pepper flakes

Garlic powder

Pepper

Cilantro

Oregano

Rosemary

Thyme

Parsley

Basil

Sage

Tomatoes, diced or cubed

Noodles

Tomato juice

Cheese, shredded

The Process

Start by browning the ground beef and onion with all the spices and herbs.   When the ground beef and onions are fully cooked, add in the diced tomatoes and tomato juice.

Once the tomato juice starts to gently foam, but before it has reached a full boil, add in the noodles.  Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer until the noodles are fully cooked, stirring occasionally. 

When the noodles are fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed or cooked off, add in the cheese, stirring to help it melt.  Turn off the heat to the skillet and serve hot. 

Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 10 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.