Elevated Hamburger Helper

• bacon8 ounce
• small yellow onion1
• minced red bell pepper½ cup
• shredded carrots1 cup
• garlic2 clove
• lean ground beef1 pound
• kosher salt0
• smoked paprika1 tablespoon
• tomato paste2 tablespoon
• petite diced tomatoes1 can
• beef stock3 cup
• whole milk2 cup
• uncooked pasta shells1 pound
• shredded smoked gouda cheese2 cup
• shredded cheddar cheese2 cup
• finely chopped fresh parsley0

Instructions

1. 1

   Add the bacon to a large pot.

2. 2

   Turn the heat to medium-high and cook until crispy, 5–7 minutes.

3. 3

   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

4. 4

   Discard all but 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat in the pot.

5. 5

   Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion to the pot.

6. 6

   Cook until softened, 5–7 minutes.

7. 7

   Add the red bell pepper, carrots, and garlic.

8. 8

   Cook until softened, 2–3 minutes more.

9. 9

   Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan.

10. 10

    Break up the beef with spatula and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

11. 11

    Season with salt.

12. 12

    Add the paprika and tomato paste.

13. 13

    Cook until fragrant and the tomato paste turns brick-red in color, 2–3 minutes.

14. 14

    Add the diced tomatoes, beef stock, and milk and bring to a low boil.

15. 15

    Once the liquid is boiling, add the pasta shells.

16. 16

    Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are al dente and they have absorbed most of the liquid.

17. 17

    NOTE: The timing will differ depending on what type of noodles you use.

18. 18

    Remove the pot from the heat.

19. 19

    Stir in the Gouda and cheddar cheeses until melted.

20. 20

    Fold in the cooked bacon.

21. 21

    Garnish with parsley, if desired.

22. 22

    Serve immediately.

23. 23

    Enjoy!