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Enchilada Hamburger Helper

Cheesy Enchilada Hamburger Helper for Busy Weeknights

This Cheesy Enchilada Hamburger Helper brings together savory ground beef, rich enchilada sauce, and melty cheese in a quick weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Dish
  • 1 pound lean ground beef opt for lean for a lighter meal
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder for warmth and flavor
  • 1 teaspoon cumin for authentic Mexican essence
  • 2 cloves minced garlic or use garlic powder
  • 2 cups beef broth or vegetable broth for lighter option
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce red or green based on preference
  • 1 cup whole milk can substitute with half-and-half or plant-based
  • 2 cups elbow pasta consider whole grain or gluten-free
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or other cheeses like Monterey Jack
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup black beans for added fiber
  • 1 cup corn fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers for crunch and color
Toppings
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro for freshness
  • 1 avocado for creaminess
  • 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative
  • 1 cup salsa or guacamole for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté one diced medium onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until browned.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of enchilada sauce, simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add 2 cups of uncooked elbow pasta, cover, and cook on medium-low for 8-10 minutes until tender.
  6. Mix in 1 cup of whole milk and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until cheese melts.
  7. Serve hot, topped with preferred toppings like sour cream or cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Customize your Enchilada Hamburger Helper with various toppings and add-ins to suit your taste.

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