Taco-Mex Homemade Hamburger Helper (One Pot Wonder)

By Foodiewife

I made a homemade version of Cheeseburger Hamburger Helper that was not only easy, it had much better ingredients than what you find in a box. I loved that the recipe was super easy and I made it all in one pan! So, I decided to modify the recipe by spicing it up with Taco Seasoning, chopped veggies and melted cheese. It turned out great! My son said it tasted like my enchiladas. I thought it tasted similar to a taco pie. Either way, this is easy and is going to be part of a regular rotation-- especially on a busy work night!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (you can substitute olive or vegetable oil)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups corn (frozen is fine)
• 1 small can sliced black olives
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced mild green chiles
• 4 tablespoons taco seasoning* (about 1 packet)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 3/4 cup natural, non-MSG beef broth
• 2 cups dried elbow macaroni pasta (can substitute whole wheat if desired)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (medium or sharp, your choice)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded (you could use Pepper Jack)

Preparation

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef until no pink remains.

Add the onions and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the tomato paste, olives, corn, taco seasoning and flour.

Pour in the milk and broth and stir.

Stir in the macaroni.

Bring to a boil then reduce to medium-low, cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until the macaroni is done. (For al dente check after 9 minutes.)

Stir in the cheeses until melted.

Serve immediately garnished with some chopped fresh cilantro and sour cream if desired.

Reheats well.