Amy's Homemade Hamburger Helper

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey (sometimes I use only 1/2 lb)
• 1/2 cup onions, diced
• 1 tablespoon butter, optional
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup cold water
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt or seasoning salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon parsley
• 3/4 garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 or more cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Brown ground meat in a skillet over medium heat until almost done.
2. Add in onions and cook until tender.
3. Drain meat & onions on paper towels and return to skillet.
4. Add remaining ingredients except for the cheese.
5. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat, cover and cook until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes. Stirring occasionally.
8. * Do not over cook pasta. I usually taste check it at 9 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and stir in cheese. Sauce may be thin.
10. Let pasta sit to thicken the sauce, meanwhile adjust seasonings if needed.
11. Serve and enjoy.