A healthier, homemade version of Hamburger Helper made completely in the slow cooker -- yes, even the pasta! (And no, it's not mushy and overcooked!) Packed with sneaky veggies.
1pinchred pepper flakesor more, if you like it spicy!
1tspminced garlic
1tspsalt
1tspItalian seasoning
1cupfinely chopped fresh spinach
1 1/2cup1% milk
1cupbeef brothlow sodium
1 1/2cupsseasoned tomato or pasta sauce
3cupsdry uncooked macaroni(340g)
1 1/2cupsshredded cheese
Instructions
In a medium skillet, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is translucent. Add to a 4-6 quart slow cooker.
Add in bell pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, spinach, milk, beef broth and tomato sauce and stir. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
10-15 minutes before serving, stir in pasta. Cover and let cook for 10-15 minutes, until desired tenderness is reached. Stir in cheese (covering for 2-3 minutes if necessary to melt the cheese) and serve.
Video
Notes
*Nutrition information is estimated and will vary depending on exact serving size, types and brands of products used.