Green Chile Hamburger Helper

Green Chile Hamburger Helper is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic Hamburger Helper. With lean ground beef, aromatic onions, and spicy green chiles, this dish is loaded with savory goodness.

The pasta cooks right in the rich beef broth, absorbing all the delicious flavors, while freshly grated cheddar cheese melts into a creamy, cheesy finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this hearty meal brings together robust flavors and easy preparation in one satisfying pot.

Green Chile Hamburger Helper

Ingredients

1 pound extra lean ground beef

1/2 medium onion chopped

2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 cup green chile

1 cup uncooked pasta

3 cups beef broth

2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese

Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Add the beef and onions to a soup pot. Cook over medium-high heat until the beef has browned (about 7-10 minutes), breaking the meat up with your spoon as you go along. If there’s a lot of excess fat, spoon most of it out.

Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, and green chile.

Add in the beef broth and increase the heat to high. Once it starts boiling, add in the pasta.

Reduce the heat so it’s not furiously boiling (a rapid simmer is good). I ended up cooking mine over medium heat. Let it cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed (about 13-15 minutes). I stir it every couple of minutes.

While it’s cooking, grate the cheese (this saves prep time at the start of the recipe).

Take the pot off the heat and stir in the cheese. Season with salt & pepper as needed. I let it sit for a couple minutes prior to serving (soaks up the sauce and flavors more), but you can serve it right away.

Notes:

Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is used in this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of your favorites for different flavor profiles.

Pasta Choices: You can use any small pasta shape such as elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini. Adjust the cooking time if you choose a different type of pasta.

Green Chile Variations: Adjust the amount of green chile to your taste. If you prefer less heat, use mild green chiles or reduce the quantity.

Beef Variations: For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Just be mindful that the flavor will be slightly different.

Adding Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.

Thickening the Dish: If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook the pasta a bit longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Adjusting Spice Levels: If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to taste.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A dollop of sour cream on top can also add a nice touch of creaminess.

Nutrition Information:

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YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat.

Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat used.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work best.

Ensure the pasta is uncooked when adding it to the pot.

Can I use pre-grated cheese?

Pre-grated cheese is fine, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.

If using pre-grated cheese, add it towards the end of cooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra green chiles, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Adjust to taste.

Can I use canned green chiles instead of fresh?

Yes, canned green chiles are a great substitute and are convenient.

Use the amount specified or adjust based on your heat preference.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute.

The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can include vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas.

Add them along with the pasta to ensure they cook through.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your beef broth and any other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.

Store in an airtight container, and reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little beef broth to restore the consistency if needed.