Recession Recipes: Hamburger Helper / Goulash

Written instructions for Hamburger Helper / Goulash

Here's a formal recipe based on the conversation, with metric conversions:

Homemade Hamburger Helper

Ingredients:
- Ground beef (or meat substitute)
- Tomato paste (or pasta sauce/salsa/ketchup)
- Water
- Pasta (any shape or type)
- Cheese
- Optional: Milk, butter, or cream cheese

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef (or meat substitute).

2. Add tomato paste (or alternative tomato product). If using a thinner sauce, adjust water accordingly.

3. Pour in water, using approximately twice the volume of the meat.

4. Once the mixture begins to bubble, add pasta. Ensure there's enough liquid to cook the pasta completely.

5. Stir occasionally, making sure ingredients are visible and pasta is cooking evenly.

6. When pasta is nearly cooked, add cheese and optional dairy products to create a creamy texture.

7. Simmer until pasta is fully cooked and sauce has thickened.

Serves: 4-6 people
Preparation time: 20-25 minutes

Notes:
- Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability
- Adjust spices to taste
- Can be easily adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets