Hamburger Help-Yourself

A well-stocked pantry can provide the makings for an easy skillet dinner—without using a packaged mix—and the homemade version tastes so much better!

Recipe Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped peeled onion
2 1/2 cups water
2 cups short pasta, such as macaroni or small shells
1 cup diced processed American cheddar cheese (makes the dish creamier)
1 cup sliced black olives
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Cooking Directions:

1. Combine beef, celery and onion in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat until meat is browned and vegetables are tender, about 7 minutes.
2. Add water, pasta, cheese, olives, tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic powder and chili powder; stir well. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until noodles are tender.

Makes 6 servings.