About a year ago, I started experimenting with homemade versions of Hamburger Helper — and wow, they’re so much better than the boxed mixes! 🙌 Easy, customizable, and perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients (for 4–6 servings):
- 1 tsp cornstarch (0 pts)
- 2 tsp paprika (0 pts)
- 1 tsp onion powder (0 pts)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (0 pts)
- 1 tsp salt (0 pts)
- 1 tsp sugar (0 pts)
- 1 ½ cups dry macaroni (uncooked – 15 pts for regular, 11 pts for whole wheat)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (96% lean – 10 pts)
- 2 cups skim milk (2 pts)
- 1 cup water (0 pts)
- Choice of cheese, shredded (½ cup reduced-fat cheddar – 4 pts)
Instructions:
- Brown the hamburger in a large skillet and drain excess fat.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add the spice mix, milk, and water to the skillet with the beef. Stir well.
- Add macaroni and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the cheese until creamy and melted.
💙 WW Points (approximate per 1-cup serving): 6–7 pts depending on pasta and cheese choice.
✨ This recipe is versatile — our favorites are stroganoff and lasagna style, with tomato mac as a simple option. Perfect for a homemade, lighter version of a classic comfort food!