Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re serving up a classic comfort food dish with a modern twist: Crock Pot Hamburger Helper! This hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something cozy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With the convenience of your slow cooker, you can enjoy the flavors of this beloved dish with minimal effort. So, let’s dive in and whip up a batch of this irresistible Crock Pot Hamburger Helper together!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar soup
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups uncooked macaroni noodles
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.
- Add Ingredients: To the slow cooker, add diced onions, condensed cheddar soup, diced tomatoes (undrained), ketchup, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, beef broth, and milk. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors meld together and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Macaroni Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked macaroni noodles. Cover and continue cooking until the noodles are tender.
- Stir in Cheese: Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and well incorporated into the mixture.
- Serve: Ladle the hot Crock Pot Hamburger Helper into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Make it Creamier: For an even creamier texture, you can substitute some or all of the milk with heavy cream.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or sprinkle in some paprika for smokiness.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese for variety. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses can all work well in this recipe.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, simply replace the macaroni noodles with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as these low-carb alternatives may cook faster than traditional noodles.
- Low Carb Option: If you’re watching your carb intake, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free macaroni noodles instead of regular ones. Additionally, reduce the amount of ketchup or opt for a sugar-free variety to further lower the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of Crock Pot Hamburger Helper?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used interchangeably with ground beef in this recipe.
Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
Q: Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?
A: While it’s possible to cook this recipe on high heat for a shorter duration, we recommend cooking it on low for the best results. This allows the flavors to develop fully and ensures that the noodles cook evenly without becoming mushy.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This Crock Pot Hamburger Helper reheats well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply store leftovers in individual containers and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and satisfying meal.
There you have it – a foolproof recipe for Crock Pot Hamburger Helper that’s sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and the convenience of your slow cooker, you can enjoy all the comforting flavors of this classic dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some comfort food on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort!
