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Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper with Ground Beef and Pasta

A comforting, creamy pasta dish with ground beef that is easy to prepare in a slow cooker, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs halal ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the halal ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
  2. Transfer the ground beef to your slow cooker. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until combined.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, and stir to create the base.
  4. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and set to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and let sit for 10-15 minutes until melted.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with halal ground turkey or chicken and use whole wheat pasta for added health benefits. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking, and check cooking time to avoid mushy pasta.