Green Chile Hamburger Helper

A creamy, cheesy, southwest-style homemade Hamburger Helper loaded with green chiles and tender pasta—comfort food with a kick!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings

Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup diced green chiles (canned or roasted fresh)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups pasta (elbows, penne, or macaroni)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onions until browned. Drain if needed.
2. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
3. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add pasta, beef broth, milk, and diced green chiles. Stir well.
5. Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Turn off heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Let sit 2–3 minutes to thicken, then serve hot!

Pro Tip:
Add a handful of pepper jack cheese at the end for an extra spicy, extra melty finish!