Homemade Hamburger Helper
This is the elevated version of a childhood classic. Pre's grass-fed ground beef replaces the boxed mix, pairing with pancetta, white wine, and double cream to create a rich, sophisticated pasta dish that still feels like pure comfort. The result is a creamy, savory entrée that's weeknight-simple but looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Hamburger Helper Ingredients
1 16-ounce package Pre 85% Lean Ground Beef
¼ cup neutral cooking oil
1 medium onion, diced
½ teaspoon kosher salt
4 cloves of garlic, minced
½ cup diced pancetta
1 cup dry white wine
3 cups low-sodium chicken stock
¾ cup heavy cream
¼ cup hot sauce
8 ounces elbow pasta
5 slices American cheese, cut into pieces
1½ cups cheddar cheese, grated
½ cup finely chopped chives
Instructions:
Heat a large sauté pan over medium-low and add oil, onion, and salt. (Why: starting on lower heat prevents the onion from browning too quickly, allowing it to caramelize slowly and develop deep sweetness.) Cook until onions begin to caramelize, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Increase heat to medium-high and add pancetta and ground beef, using the back of a spoon to break up the meat into smaller pieces. (Why: keeping meat in smaller pieces ensures even cooking and helps it integrate smoothly into the sauce.) Cook until the meat starts to sear, about 12 to 15 minutes.
Add white wine and allow it to reduce, about 10 minutes.
Add chicken stock, heavy cream, and hot sauce to the pan and mix until combined. Bring to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, stirring often, about 9 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in both types of cheese, stirring until completely melted. Top with hamburger helper with chives and serve.
Notes:
This dish can be prepared one day in advance; the flavors actually meld and deepen when rested overnight. Freeze well for up to three months in an airtight container.
