Looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful meal prep option? We've got just the thing—our Caribbean-inspired Creamy Hamburger Helper! This dish combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta, sautéed bell peppers, onions, diced carrots, and shredded cabbage for a nutritious boost, all smothered in a velvety cheese sauce infused with Hola Island Provisions Jerk Spice Blend for a bold kick. It’s a comforting, meal perfect for busy weekdays and reheats like a dream!
This spicy, creamy, veggie-packed pasta is an easy way to sneak in extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it all comes together in just 30 minutes! Follow the recipe below and check out our Instagram for a step-by-step guide!
Serving Size: 4-6 (Meal Prep Friendly!)
Recommended Cooking Gear:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Airtight meal prep containers
Ingredients Needed:
For the Pasta & Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 tbsp Hola Island Jamaican Spice Blend
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups milk (or unsweetened coconut milk for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or small pasta of choice
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra richness)
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Beef & Veggies
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in Hola Island Jamaican Spice Blend, diced onion, bell pepper, diced carrots, shredded cabbage, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Pasta
- Pour in beef broth and milk, then bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s fully submerged. Cover and let cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar and provolone. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Once the pasta is cooked, pour the creamy cheese sauce over it and mix until fully coated. If needed, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Meal Prep & Store
- Divide the pasta into airtight meal prep containers. Let cool before sealing and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Pro Tip:
For added texture and crunch, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits on top before serving. Want an extra protein boost? Top with grilled shrimp or a fried egg!
Now it’s your turn! Share your meal prep creations by tagging us on Instagram or commenting below with your thoughts. Did you add your own twist? We’d love to hear how you made it your own!
Buen Provecho!
Hola Island Provisions Team
P.S. If you’re out of our Spice Blends, head to our shop to restock or our retail locator to find our products in a store near you!