When you think of comfort food, there are a few dishes that stand out, and Homemade Hamburger Helper is one of them. This easy, homemade version is a healthier, more flavorful alternative to the boxed version we all grew up with. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying. This Homemade Hamburger Helper combines savory ground beef, pasta, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, making it a meal everyone will love. The best part? It’s ready in just about 30 minutes!
Let’s take a deeper dive into how you can recreate this nostalgic dish from scratch with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Why Homemade Hamburger Helper is a Game-Changer
While the boxed version of Hamburger Helper is a staple for many families, there’s something special about making this dish from scratch. When you make it yourself, you have complete control over the ingredients, seasoning, and the quality of the meal. Not to mention, it’s incredibly customizable to suit your personal tastes and dietary preferences. Here’s why you’ll love making Homemade Hamburger Helper:
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Full Control Over Ingredients: No artificial flavors, preservatives, or excessive sodium. You know exactly what’s in your dish, which is especially important for those with dietary restrictions or those who prefer more natural foods.
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Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only about 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. It’s also a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze.
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Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings, swap in different cheeses, or even add extra veggies to make it your own.
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Affordable: With simple ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and basic seasonings, this dish won’t break the bank.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Homemade Hamburger Helper, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together perfectly to create that rich, cheesy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Ground Beef: The star of the dish. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to go with fattier beef for a richer taste.
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Pasta: Traditional elbow macaroni is the go-to for Homemade Hamburger Helper, but you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like penne or shells.
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Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese adds the perfect creaminess and flavor. Don’t use pre-grated cheese as it won’t melt as well.
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Beef Broth: Adds richness and depth to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
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Onion and Garlic Powder: These aromatics provide a savory base for the dish. You can also use fresh garlic if you prefer a more intense flavor.
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Tomato Paste: This concentrated tomato flavor adds both color and richness to the sauce.
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Chili Powder: A mild chili powder adds a little warmth to the dish without overpowering the flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: To taste, these simple seasonings bring everything together and enhance the dish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Hamburger Helper
Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s go over the step-by-step process of making this mouthwatering Homemade Hamburger Helper.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Once the beef is cooked through and browned, drain any excess fat. This step is crucial to avoid greasy sauce, so don’t skip it.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Once the beef is browned, stir in the chopped onion, garlic powder, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to slightly caramelize. This step builds the flavor base for your sauce.
Step 3: Add Beef Broth and Bring to a Boil
Next, add in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally, making sure the tomato paste and seasonings dissolve evenly into the broth. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Stir in the Pasta
Add the uncooked macaroni to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the beef broth mixture. Let the pasta cook uncovered over medium heat for about 13-15 minutes, or until it’s tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Stir in the Cheese
While the pasta is cooking, grate your cheese. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it wonderfully creamy and rich. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Let It Rest
For the best flavor, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the sauce to thicken a little more. However, you can also serve it right away if you’re in a hurry.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best parts of Homemade Hamburger Helper is how adaptable it is. You can tweak it to your liking or based on what ingredients you have available. Here are some ideas:
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Ground Meat Options: Feel free to use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground pork if you prefer a lighter or different flavor.
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Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, smoked cheddar, or even a blend of your favorites for a different twist.
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Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, increase the chili powder or add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. You can also add more garlic for a bolder flavor.
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Add Vegetables: Sneak in some veggies to make it even more nutritious. Spinach, bell peppers, or peas all work well in this dish. Add them in towards the end of the cooking process to retain their color and texture.
What to Serve with Homemade Hamburger Helper
While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can serve it alongside some delicious sides to make the meal even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas:
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Salad: A fresh, simple salad with a tangy dressing is the perfect accompaniment to balance the richness of Homemade Hamburger Helper.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is always a hit with comfort foods like this one.
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Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add some extra veggies to your meal, try roasting green beans, carrots, or broccoli for a flavorful side dish.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so delicious), here’s how to store and reheat them:
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the liquid over time, but it will still taste great.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the leftovers in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the dish has become too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
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Freezing: While this dish can be frozen, it’s not recommended because the pasta may become mushy when reheated. If you do choose to freeze it, make sure to store it in an airtight container and consume it within 2 months.
Tips for Perfecting Your Homemade Hamburger Helper
To ensure your Homemade Hamburger Helper turns out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips that can elevate your dish:
1. Grate Your Own Cheese
While pre-grated cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese makes a huge difference in both texture and flavor. When you grate cheese yourself, it melts more smoothly into the sauce, giving you a creamier, richer texture. Sharp cheddar is the best choice for Homemade Hamburger Helper, but feel free to experiment with other types like Monterey Jack or even a smoked cheese for added flavor.
2. Adjust the Seasoning to Your Taste
The beauty of making Homemade Hamburger Helper from scratch is that you can tailor the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add some red pepper flakes. If you enjoy a more savory flavor, add extra garlic powder or even some fresh minced garlic. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning until you’re happy with the flavor profile.
3. Use a Dutch Oven for Even Cooking
A Dutch oven is ideal for making Homemade Hamburger Helper because it provides even heat distribution and retains moisture well. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a heavy-bottomed pot will work just fine. The key is to ensure that the pot is large enough to accommodate the beef, pasta, and broth without overcrowding.
4. Keep an Eye on the Liquid Levels
As you cook, make sure the liquid doesn’t evaporate too quickly. If you notice that the pasta is absorbing all the liquid before it’s fully cooked, simply add a little more broth or water, a half-cup at a time. This will ensure your Homemade Hamburger Helper has the perfect creamy texture without becoming too dry.
5. Let It Rest Before Serving
After stirring in the cheese and seasoning, let your Homemade Hamburger Helper sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and give the sauce time to thicken slightly, resulting in a richer, creamier dish.
Creative Variations to Make Your Homemade Hamburger Helper Stand Out
One of the best things about Homemade Hamburger Helper is how versatile it is. With a few creative tweaks, you can easily change the flavor and texture to suit your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:
1. Make It Healthier:
If you’re looking to lighten up your dish, consider these options:
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Lean Meat Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken to reduce fat content.
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Whole Wheat Pasta: Using whole wheat elbow macaroni or other whole-grain pasta varieties adds fiber and makes the meal more nutritious.
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Add Extra Veggies: Throw in some diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a burst of color and nutrition.
2. Change Up the Cheese:
While cheddar is the classic choice, you can get creative with different cheeses to add unique flavors:
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Smoked Cheddar: This adds a smoky flavor to your Homemade Hamburger Helper, giving it a deeper, more complex taste.
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Monterey Jack: If you prefer a milder cheese, Monterey Jack creates a creamy, gooey texture without being too sharp.
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Cream Cheese: For an ultra-creamy, rich version, stir in a bit of cream cheese alongside the shredded cheddar for a velvety finish.
3. Make It Spicy:
If you like your food with a little extra heat, try these options:
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Add Jalapeños: Chopped fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños are a great way to add some heat.
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Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can add flavor and spice to your dish.
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Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes in while the pasta cooks for a nice heat that doesn’t overwhelm the dish.
4. Swap the Protein:
If you’re in the mood for something other than beef, these alternatives will still give you a hearty, comforting meal:
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Ground Pork: For a slightly sweeter, but still savory flavor, use ground pork in place of beef.
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Ground Lamb: If you like a richer, more flavorful meat, ground lamb can add a unique twist to your Homemade Hamburger Helper.
Making Homemade Hamburger Helper for a Crowd
If you’re cooking for a larger group or want to make extra for leftovers, you can easily scale up the recipe. Here’s how:
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Increase the Beef: For each additional serving, add about ½ pound of ground beef to the recipe.
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Adjust the Pasta: Increase the pasta by about 1/4 cup for each extra serving.
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Add More Liquid: For every extra 1/2 pound of beef, add an additional 1/2 cup of beef broth to ensure there’s enough liquid for the pasta to cook in.
This recipe is easily adaptable, so you can make enough Homemade Hamburger Helper to feed a family or a larger group of guests. Plus, the leftovers will keep for a few days, making it a great meal prep option.
How to Make Your Homemade Hamburger Helper Even More Flavorful
Want to make your Homemade Hamburger Helper even more delicious? Here are a few simple ideas:
1. Top with Fresh Herbs:
Adding fresh herbs as a garnish can really elevate the dish. Try topping your Homemade Hamburger Helper with chopped parsley or basil to add a fresh, aromatic note that balances the richness of the cheese and beef.
2. Serve with a Side of Pickles:
The tangy crunch of pickles pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy richness of Homemade Hamburger Helper. Serve a few pickle slices on the side or stir in some pickle relish for a twist.
3. Add a Crunchy Topping:
If you love a bit of crunch, sprinkle some crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even fried onions on top of the dish right before serving. The texture contrast will give your Homemade Hamburger Helper a delightful twist.
How to Elevate Your Homemade Hamburger Helper
Making Homemade Hamburger Helper from scratch is already a win, but there are a few extra steps you can take to really elevate the dish and make it even more special. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a gathering, or just for yourself, these tips will take your meal to the next level:
1. Add a Creamy Twist with Sour Cream
For an extra creamy texture, consider stirring in a dollop of sour cream once the dish is off the heat. It will make the sauce even smoother and add a slight tang that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. It’s a small addition but one that truly makes a difference in the overall flavor profile.
2. Use a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
While the stovetop method is quick and easy, if you have the time, you can make Homemade Hamburger Helper in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a more hands-off approach. Here’s how:
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Slow Cooker: Brown the beef and onions on the stove, then transfer everything into the slow cooker. Add the broth, tomato paste, seasonings, and uncooked pasta. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or high for 2-3 hours. Add the cheese right before serving and stir to combine.
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Instant Pot: Brown the beef and onions using the sauté function. Add the rest of the ingredients (including pasta and broth), seal the Instant Pot, and cook on high pressure for about 5 minutes. Release the pressure, stir in the cheese, and your dish is ready!
Both methods provide the same comforting flavor but require less attention during the cooking process.
3. Garnish with Crispy Bacon
If you’re a bacon lover, consider topping your Homemade Hamburger Helper with crispy bacon crumbles. The salty, smoky flavor of the bacon contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce, adding an extra layer of richness and texture.
4. Serve with a Side of Veggies
If you’d like to add some veggies to the meal, there are many simple options that pair perfectly with Homemade Hamburger Helper. Here are some ideas:
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Sautéed Mushrooms: Their earthy flavor complements the richness of the beef and cheese.
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Steamed Broccoli: Adds a fresh, crisp bite that helps balance the creamy sauce.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts adds a depth of flavor that enhances the whole dish.
These veggies will provide additional texture and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the Homemade Hamburger Helper.
Why Make Homemade Hamburger Helper?
You might wonder, why go through the effort of making Homemade Hamburger Helper when you can just grab the box at the store? Here’s why:
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Better Ingredients: When you make Homemade Hamburger Helper, you know exactly what’s in your food. There are no artificial flavors, preservatives, or unnecessary additives. You can also control the salt content and use higher-quality ingredients.
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Customizable: Whether you want to make it spicier, add more veggies, or switch up the meat, Homemade Hamburger Helper is infinitely customizable to suit your taste.
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Healthier: By using lean meat, whole wheat pasta, and fresh ingredients, you can make this dish healthier than the boxed version. You can even make it low-carb or gluten-free by using alternative pasta and meat options.
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Fewer Dishes: Since it’s a one-pot dish, Homemade Hamburger Helper reduces the number of dishes you’ll need to clean. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal but don’t want to deal with a sink full of dishes.
Perfect Pairings for Homemade Hamburger Helper
While Homemade Hamburger Helper is filling enough on its own, a few simple sides can turn this meal into a well-rounded feast. Here are some perfect pairings:
1. Crispy Green Salad
A light, refreshing salad can balance the richness of the cheesy Hamburger Helper. Top it with a homemade dressing, like a tangy vinaigrette, or a creamy ranch for added indulgence. Try adding fresh ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion for extra crunch.
2. Buttery Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is the perfect side dish to serve with Homemade Hamburger Helper. The sweetness of the corn pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the dish. You can easily make it on the grill or stovetop for a quick, delicious addition.
3. Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
If you’re craving something hearty, roasted potatoes with garlic butter make a satisfying side. The crispy edges of the potatoes add a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the Homemade Hamburger Helper.
Making the Most of Leftovers
One of the great things about Homemade Hamburger Helper is that it keeps well as leftovers. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had more time to develop. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:
1. Storage:
Store leftover Homemade Hamburger Helper in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will absorb more of the liquid over time, so the dish may thicken. You can add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.
2. Reheating:
To reheat, place the leftovers in a pot over low heat and stir occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a little more broth or water to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but stir halfway through for even heating.
3. Freezing:
If you want to freeze the leftovers for later, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
Conclusion Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe
Homemade Hamburger Helper is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a quick, comforting meal that’s also customizable and budget-friendly. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy. With the ability to adjust the seasoning, swap ingredients, and try different variations, you’ll never get bored of this classic comfort food. Plus, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
So, the next time you crave something hearty and filling, ditch the box and make Homemade Hamburger Helper from scratch. Your taste buds will thank you!
Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe Card
Ingredients
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1 lb extra lean ground beef
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1/2 medium onion, chopped
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2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon chili powder
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3 cups beef broth
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1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
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2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Brown the Beef and Onion: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it browns (about 7-10 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
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Add Seasonings: Stir in the chopped onion, garlic powder, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes until the spices bloom.
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Add Beef Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Stir occasionally to ensure the tomato paste dissolves.
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Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni. Stir to coat, and let it cook uncovered for 13-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
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Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Let it Rest: Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
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Substitutions: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
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Cheese Variations: Try using Monterey Jack or smoked cheddar for a different flavor profile.
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Spicy Option: Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
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Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach, bell peppers, or peas to make it more nutritious.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
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Calories: 500 kcal
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Protein: 30g
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Carbohydrates: 40g
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Fat: 25g
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Sodium: 850mg
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 3g
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Method: Stovetop
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Cuisine: American
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Servings: 4
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Calories: 500 kcal per serving
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Yield: 4 servings
