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Hamburger Help: Cheesy Jambalaya

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Figuring out “what’s for dinner” can be a nightmare at the end of a long day. . . This simple make ahead Hamburger Help Cheesy Jambalaya mixwill make mealtime a breeze.

Cheesy Jambalaya Seasoning Mix:
1 cup rice
1 tablespoon corn starch
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar

Combine all, mixing well and place in a ziploc bag until ready to use. This makes 1 Jambalaya helper mix.

To Prepare:
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1/2 lb sausage links, cut into chunks (*Optional)
3/4 cup hot water
2 cups milk
1 cup stewed or diced canned tomatoes
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 Jambalaya Mix Packet

Step One: In a large skillet, Brown and drain one pound of ground beef or turkey. If using the sausage links, cook them as well. Most Jambalaya has sausage in it, but it’s not always within the budget.

Step Two: To the browned meat, add hot water, milk, tomatoes and seasoning packet, stirring well to blend. Simmer covered 18-20 minutes. During the last few minutes of cook time, add shredded cheddar cheese, cover, shut off heat for 3-5 minutes.

Step Three: Uncover, Let stand to thicken at least 5 minutes before serving.

Melissa 'Liss' Burnell, Founder of Budget101

👩‍🍳 About the Author

Melissa "Liss" Burnell started Budget101.com in 2001 because she needed it to exist — not because she saw a market opportunity. She was feeding a family of four on under $200 a month, and people kept asking how, so she started writing everything down.

That turned into 25 years of recipes, debt-busting strategies, and DIY content — including figuring out how to make 128 loads of laundry detergent for less than $2. Millions of families have quietly used this site to stretch a dollar without feeling like they're sacrificing anything. She's also the author of two bestselling budget cooking ebooks, available on Amazon.

📚 More on the About page, or find her on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook.

3 thoughts on “Hamburger Help: Cheesy Jambalaya”

  1. 5 stars
    I decided to add some extra veggies and sliced sausage to the Cheesy Jambalaya Hamburger Helper for a heartier meal, and it turned out amazing! The flavors blended perfectly, and my family loved it.

    Reply
  2. 5 stars
    Hamburger Helper Cheesy Jambalaya is a winner in my book! The blend of spices and the creamy cheese sauce make it a tasty and comforting dish.

    It does need to be paired with some seasonal vegetables though.

    Reply
  3. 5 stars
    The Cheesy Jambalaya Hamburger Helper is a fantastic option when you’re craving a taste of New Orleans but short on time. It captures the essence of jambalaya with a cheesy twist, I’ll make it again.

    Reply

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