Chee-zy Vegan One Pot Hamburger Helper

 This nostalgic take on the box hamburger helper from our childhood comes together in under 30 minutes and is super creamy! 

Ingredients

• 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 tsp. minced garlic
• 1 cup cooked lentils (optional)
• 1/2 lb. Beyond Beef or other ground beef substitute
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. black pepper
• 1 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 1/2 cup plant milk
• 1 1/2 cup veggie stock
• 2 cups / 224g dry elbow macaroni pasta
• 2 tbsp. vegan cream cheese
• 1/2 cup vegan cheese
• Dried parsley flakes, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Dice bell pepper and onion before adding to a heated skillet with olive oil. Cook on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes or until onions are softened and translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Break up ground beef substitute into pan along with optional lentils and stir. Add seasonings to taste. 
   
   
   
3. Cover mixture with stock and milk. Add the pasta, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes or until pasta has mostly softened. 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Stir in vegan cream cheese and cheese and cover again until cheese is melted and sauce is thickened. Serve immediately. 
   
   
   
5. Enjoy!