Homemade Crunchy Taco Hamburger Helper

 Homemade Crunchy Taco Hamburger Helper is a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner that takes the classic boxed version and elevates it with fresh, homemade ingredients. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight and offers a delicious taco-inspired meal with a crunchy twist.

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)

1 small onion, chopped

1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)

1 cup beef broth (or water)

1 cup tomato sauce

1/2 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 cups crushed tortilla chips (for the crunch)

2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or green onions

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet or pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 5-7 minutes).

Drain any excess fat if needed, then add the chopped onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes tender.

2. Season the Meat:

Stir in the taco seasoning, making sure to coat the beef and onions well.

Add the beef broth and tomato sauce, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Stir in the pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.

Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:

Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in the sour cream and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Top with Crunchy Chips:

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top and then add the crushed tortilla chips for that crunchy topping.

If you like, pop the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and make the chips extra crispy.

5. Serve:

Once everything is melted and bubbly, remove from the heat. Garnish with optional toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, or tomatoes for added freshness and flavor.

Serve hot, and enjoy!

Tips:

Make it spicier: Add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning if you prefer more heat.

Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.

Cheese variety: You can use a combination of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a more complex flavor.

This Homemade Crunchy Taco Hamburger Helper is an easy, comforting meal that combines the best of taco flavors with the fun of a cheesy, pasta

-filled dish. The crunchy chips on top give it the perfect texture contrast!