Pizza Hamburger Helper (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1 lb ground beef
02 -
1 medium onion, chopped
03 -
¼ cup pepperoni, chopped
04 -
1 tablespoon minced garlic
05 -
2½ cups penne pasta
06 -
2 cups beef broth
07 -
2 cups marinara sauce
08 -
½ cup whole milk
09 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Seasonings and Garnish
10 -
½ teaspoon salt
11 -
½ teaspoon black pepper
12 -
1 teaspoon paprika
13 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
14 -
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
15 -
Dried parsley for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes while cooking.
02 -
Chop the pepperoni into small pieces. Once the beef is mostly browned, add the chopped pepperoni to the center of the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to crisp up and release its oils.
03 -
Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
04 -
Stir in the beef broth, marinara sauce, milk, and penne pasta. Mix everything together well, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid as much as possible.
05 -
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring a couple of times to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
06 -
Stir in 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese until melted and incorporated. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese and either let it melt on the stovetop over low heat, or place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with dried parsley and serve hot.
# Notes:
01 -
This homemade version is much more flavorful than boxed hamburger helper and uses real ingredients
02 -
The pepperoni adds authentic pizza flavor and helps create a rich, savory base for the dish
03 -
Make sure pasta is mostly submerged in liquid for even cooking - add more broth if needed
04 -
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking to thicken up before serving