DIY Hamburger Helper – Italian Style

So, this isn’t exactly a hamburger helper – but it has a similar approach being made in the skillet. 

In fact, I’d argue it’s better.  Real ingredients make a huge difference. 

You’ll find Italian sausage (we used turkey sausage), whole wheat pasta, spinach, tomatoes and mushrooms in this one, along with onion, garlic and parsley!

DIY Hamburger Helper – Italian Style

Ingredients

• 12 oz. whole wheat pasta (we used penne)
• 1/2 lb. ground Italian sausage
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
• 1 T mined onion
• 1 tsp. minced garlic
• 1 tsp. parsley
• 1 tsp. oregano or basil, your choice (or, do some of both!)
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 C spinach (fresh or frozen)
• 1-2 T milk
• 1/4 C Mozzarella cheese

Directions

Begin by browning the Italian sausage in a large skillet.  Drain.  Then, return the sausage to the skillet and add in 1 can diced tomatoes (undrained), 8 oz. sliced mushrooms, 1 T minced onion, 1 tsp. minced garlic, 1 tsp. parsley, and 1 tsp. mix of basil and oregano. 

Add in 1 can of tomato sauce and bring the skillet mixture to a low, slow simmer.  Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly – about 10 minutes.  Meanwhile, bring your pasta to a boil and cook according to package directions.  Drain. 

When sauce has thickened, add in 1 C spinach.  This can be fresh or frozen, but should be torn or chopped.  Add in 1-2 T milk at this point too.  Stir. 

Add in cooked pasta.  Stir well. 

Sprinkle the top with 1/4 C shredded mozzarella cheese.  Allow the cheese to melt. 

Serve warm.