Gimme A Cheap Weeknight Dinner Quick Recipe

Remember Hamburger Helper? This recipe captures that nostalgic comfort but tastes infinitely better! Perfect for busy weeknights when you're on a budget, this easy skillet meal is ready in under 40 minutes. Skip the processed stuff and enjoy a delicious, homemade version that's surprisingly satisfying and way more flavorful.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 856.7 kcal
Protein 90g
Rating 4.3 (10 Reviews)
Gimme A Cheap Weeknight Dinner Quick

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Gimme A Cheap Weeknight Dinner Quick

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of potato soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Frozen Peas
  • Frozen Corn
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Black Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 8 ounces egg noodles
  • Warm Water
  • Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Gimme A Cheap Weeknight Dinner Quick

  1. In a large skillet, brown 1 lb ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 cup chopped celery, and 1/4 cup chopped green onions to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of potato soup and 1 cup milk. Bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally. Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
  5. While the beef mixture simmers, cook 8 ounces egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  6. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the ground beef mixture.
  7. Stir in 1 cup frozen peas, 1 cup frozen corn, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup water.
  8. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly, stirring occasionally.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

28 g

Sugar

22g

Fat

59g

Carbs

34g