The tax man cometh! For all of you who had to pay Uncle Sam, this week's column is full of cheap eats. That famous box of meat magic with the gloved mascot has been a traditional American food for years. Lower the cost even more by making your own with Homemade Helper. And, what's cheaper than a bag of Ramen noodles? Ramen Beef & Broccoli is quick, tasty and cheap!

 

Happy eating!

Homemade Helper 1 lb. hamburger 1/2 C. helper mix 2 C. noodles (penne, macaroni, elbow, etc.) 2 C. water (or more if needed) Extras

Helper Mix 1 1/4 tsp. black pepper 1 T. garlic powder 2 T. dried parsley 1/3 C. instant onion soup mix 3 T. onion powder 1 T. salt 1 2/3 C. dry milk 3 1/2 T. beef bouillon

Brown and drain the ground beef. Stir in the dry mix, then add 2 cups hot water and 2 cups noodles. You can add more or less water and noodles, depending on how much you need to stretch that pound of beef. Bring to a boil, then turn down to a simmer. Cover and cook until noodles are tender (about 20 minutes).

For Cheeseburger flavor, add 1 cup powdered cheese sauce mix to the Helper Mix. Or cook as above, then stir in 2 cups grated Cheddar before serving.

For Stroganoff, add 1/2 tsp. of onion powder and 1/2 tsp celery salt with the dry mix. Stir in a 1/2 cup fresh or canned mushrooms. After cooking noodles, stir in 1/4 cup sour cream just before serving.

For chili, add one 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, 1 T. chili powder.

For potato version, replace macaroni with 2-3 C very thinly sliced potatoes. Simmer 20-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Uncover and simmer until liquid has evaporated.

Ramen Beef and Broccoli 1 pkg. beef ramen noodles 2 C. water 1 T. vegetable oil 3/4 lb. beef sirloin, cubed 1 onion, cut in wedges 2 C. broccoli pieces 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1 can cream of broccoli soup 1/4 C. water 1 T. soy sauce

Cook noodles according to package directions and drain. Add seasoning packet. In a skillet, brown beef in oil with garlic powder. Add onion and broccoli. Cook over medium heat until tender. Add soup, water and soy sauce. Simmer 10 minutes. Serve over noodles.