Asian Hamburger Helper – A Cozy, Childhood-Inspired One-Pan Meal

This Asian Hamburger Helper is a total nostalgic throwback with a twist! It reminds me of the kind of comfort food I grew up on—hearty, a little sweet, a little tangy, and totally satisfying. It’s got all the cozy vibes of hamburger helper, but with the bold, savory Asian flavors I love. The best part? It’s made in one pan and perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Macaroni noodles soak up a rich umami-packed sauce made with dark soy, fish sauce, hoisin, and a touch of sesame oil. The steak gets browned and juicy, red pepper and onion add just enough bite, and ginger + chili flakes bring the flavor to life. I swear, it only gets better the next day.

🥢 Ingredients:

• Half a bag of macaroni, cooked al dente

• 1/2 red pepper, diced small

• 1 small onion, diced small

• 1 steak, cut into small cubes

• 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)

• 1 tbsp beef bouillon

• 2 tbsp dark soy sauce

• 1 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce

• 1/2 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp grated ginger

• 1/4 tbsp chili flakes

• Pinch of salt and pepper

• Green onion, for topping

🍜 Directions:

1. Marinate the Steak
   In a small bowl, combine bouillon, soy sauce, fish sauce, hoisin, sesame oil, ginger, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour half over the steak, red pepper, and onion. Let sit for 5-10 minutes while your pasta cooks.

2. Cook the Steak
   In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add marinated steak cubes and sear for about 5 minutes, until browned.

3. Sauté the Veggies
   Add in the red pepper and onion. Cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Toss the Pasta
   Add in the cooked macaroni and pour in the rest of the marinade. Stir well and let everything cook together for 5–7 minutes until the noodles are coated and everything is hot and delicious.

5. Top & Serve
   Finish with a sprinkle of fresh green onion, and enjoy warm!

It’s quick, cozy, and hits all the flavor notes. Sweet, savory, a little spicy—and completely addictive. Pack it up for lunch or make a double batch for the week. Let me know if you try it!

Enjoy!

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