Mock Hamburger Helper

 I do not like hamburger helper, but I love this.  I love that this is a one pot meal.

Normally I make this in my cast iron pan, but this one was being delivered to a friend.

COPY CAT HAMBURGER HELPER

(serves 6)

Ingredients:

*5 slices bacon, cut into small pieces (optional, but so good)

*1 pound ground beef (I use 80/20)

*1 small yellow onion, chopped

*1/2 green bell pepper, chopped small

*2 cups whole milk

*1 cup cold water

*1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

*2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

*1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

*1 teaspoon salt

*1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

*1 teaspoon ground oregano 

*1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

*1 teaspoon garlic powder

*1/2 teaspoon chili powder

*1 teaspoon paprika

*2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or 1 cup mozzarella and 1 cup cheddar)

*8 slices provolone cheese

Directions:

~Cook 5 slices bacon until crispy.

~Remove from pan and set aside.

~Take a paper towel and remove as much bacon grease as you can (you want to leave a little).

~Brown 1 pound ground beef in a large skillet.

~Add 1 chopped onion,  and  1/2 chopped green pepper, cook until tender.

~Drain any fat from pan.

~Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground back pepper, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon and chili powder and stir for 15-30 seconds.

~Add water, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and stir until mixed.

~Add 2 cups elbow macaroni and stir.

~Bring mixture to a low boil.

~Reduce heat and cover.

~Cook for about 9-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees while pasta is cooking.

~Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheese.

~Add 8 slices provolone cheese in single layer on top of mixture.

~Sprinkle crumbled bacon over top of cheese.

~Bake uncovered for about 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.