Hamburger Helper, a known meal kit manufactured by General Mills is a convenient and popular choice. It consists of dried pasta and seasonings that you mix with ground beef (and additional ingredients) to create a quick, effortless and delicious meal. In this guide we will cover all the essential information about Hamburger Helper – its origins, nutritional details, flavors and options available ingredients used, preparation instructions, tips for personalizing the dish according to your preferences and some of our favorite recipes featuring Hamburger Helper.
A Brief Account of Hamburger Helpers Background
Introduced in 1971 by General Mills as a way to promote their pasta offerings further. During the 1970s when ground beef was reasonably priced they developed a concept where home cooks could effortlessly combine pasta and powdered sauce with browned ground beef. This concept gained popularity as it provided a fast yet economical dinner option.
Throughout the years General Mills has introduced flavors and varieties while discontinuing others based on evolving tastes and changing nutritional requirements. The company has made efforts to modify Hamburger Helper products to reduce sodium levels, fat content and calorie count in response to these changes. Nonetheless the core idea, behind Hamburger Helper remains intact – a way to serve up a satisfying and flavorful meal in under half an hour.
Information on the Nutrition of Hamburger Helper
The nutritional content of Hamburger Helper may vary depending on the specific variety you choose. However here are some guidelines to give you an idea. Typically a standard serving size is around 1 cup or 230 calories. If you use extra lean ground beef the calorie count may increase slightly.
In general you can expect a serving of Hamburger Helper to contain approximately;
Calories; 230. 300
Carbohydrates; 26. 32g
Fiber; 3. 7g
Protein; 8. 12g
Total Fat; 7 15g
Sodium;380 860mg
While Hamburger Helper may not be the dinner option available it does provide a tasty combination of protein and carbs. Just remember to be mindful of your sodium intake. Opting for sodium varieties and adding vegetables can help make it a healthier choice.
Flavors and Varieties of Hamburger Helper
When choosing which type of Hamburger Helper to prepare there are flavors and varieties available. Here’s an overview;
Classics; These include favorites such, as Cheeseburger Macaroni, Lasagna, Cheeseburger Casserole, Beef Pasta and more.
Hamburger Helper offers a variety of options to suit tastes, dietary needs and age groups. Here are some of the highlights;
One Pot Wonders; These flavors, such as Philly Cheesesteak and Loaded Baked Potato are designed to be cooked on the stovetop in one pot.
Ultimate Helpers; These options provide more protein from whole grains, legumes or veggies. Examples include Sweet & Sloppy Joe and Chicken Fried Rice.
Skillet Craft; These flavors reflect trends like Sriracha, Korean barbecue and buffalo style.
Kids Helpers; Specifically created for kids these varieties include Taco Mac and Cheese and Chicken Enchilada.
Helper Express Cups; For lunches on the go there are individual microwavable cups available.
Gluten Free; Hamburger Helper also offers gluten free pasta options for certain flavors.
Inside every Hamburger Helper box you’ll find dried pasta along with seasonings that’re specific to each flavor/variety. Additionally most boxes also contain a sauce base or gravy mix. So what exactly is, in that magical Hamburger Helper seasoning packet?Here’s a step by step guide on how to make Hamburger Helper, a dinner option for busy nights;
Ingredients;
Choose your preferred flavor of Hamburger Helper (available in various options).
Ground beef (. Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, etc.).
Milk or water.
Vegetable oil.
Optional add ins;
Additional vegetables like peas, carrots, etc.
Shredded cheese.
Hot sauce.
Instructions;
1. Begin by gathering all the ingredients and preparing them for cooking.
2. In a pan or skillet heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or alternative meat). Cook it thoroughly until browned.
3. Once the meat is cooked drain any fat from the pan if necessary.
4. Following the instructions on the Hamburger Helper box, pour, in the milk or water as directed. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan/skillet with a lid. Allow it to simmer for the recommended time mentioned on the Hamburger Helper box ( around 10 minutes).
7. While it simmers you can prepare any add ins you desire. For example steaming peas or carrots separately. Shredding some cheese to sprinkle on top.
8. Once done simmering remove from heat. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
9. Serve your prepared Hamburger Helper hot and enjoy! Feel free to add sauce or any other condiments according to your taste preferences.
By following these steps you’ll have a meal ready in no time that incorporates various flavors and textures into this classic dish!First preheat your oven to 400°F.
Next in a skillet brown the ground beef along with onion and garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. If there is grease drain it off.
Then follow the package directions to boil the pasta from the Hamburger Helper box until it reaches al dente consistency. Once cooked drain the pasta.
In the pot used for boiling the pasta add milk, butter or oil (your choice) the browned beef and the seasonings provided with the Hamburger Helper box. Mix everything well.
Transfer this mixture into a casserole dish. If desired top it with shredded cheese or any other vegetables or add ins of your choice.
Now bake this uncovered in your preheated oven for 15 20 minutes until it becomes hot and bubbly.
Serve this dish while still hot! You can sprinkle some sauce or additional cheese on top if you’d like.
Here are some tips for customizing your Hamburger Helper;
To add vegetables to your meal stir in thawed frozen spinach carrots peas or corn.
Experiment with different proteins, like cooked ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
If you prefer a flavor profile consider adding cayenne pepper, salsa or hot sauce.
For a cheesy experience incorporate additional shredded cheddar cheese Monterey Jack cheese or mozzarella.Here are some ideas for reinventing this convenient dinner;
Experiment with different combinations of seasonings from various Hamburger Helper varieties.
For a carb option replace the noodles with riced cauliflower.
Add a touch of tang. Creaminess by incorporating Greek yogurt into the dish while reducing the fat content.
You have possibilities to get creative with the ingredients you already have on hand!
To spark your inspiration for your Hamburger Helper meal here are a few of our favorite recipes;
Deconstructed Tacos with Cheeseburger Macaroni;
Prepare the Cheeseburger Macaroni according to instructions then stir in taco seasoning.
Serve the beef mixture, in taco shells. Lettuce wraps.
Top it off with all your favorite taco fixings!Here are a few ways to jazz up your Hamburger Helper meals and add some twists;
1. Hawaiian Hamburger Helper;
Make the Cheeseburger Casserole Hamburger Helper as instructed. Add some pineapple tidbits and red bell pepper for a tropical twist. After cooking stir in some teriyaki sauce for flavor. Finish it off by topping it with sliced onions.
2. Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Helper;
Prepare the Cheeseburger Casserole Hamburger Helper following the instructions. Give it an extra kick by mixing in pre cooked crumbled bacon. Once cooked top it with cheddar cheese. Chives for added richness.
3. Ranch Chicken Enchilada Hamburger Helper;
For a variation use the Chicken Enchilada Hamburger Helper instead of beef. Add shredded rotisserie chicken to the mix along, with canned chilies and cream cheese for a creamy and flavorful twist. Garnish your creation with avocado slices, red onion and cilantro.
4. Jazzed Up Philly Cheesesteak;
Prepare the Philly Cheesesteak Hamburger Helper as directed on the box but take it to another level by adding bell peppers, onions and mushrooms while cooking. Ready pile this delicious mixture onto hoagie rolls and top it off with even more cheese for an indulgent experience.
With these modifications using Hamburger Helper as your base ingredient you can enjoy comfort food thats tailored to suit your tastes perfectly!