Hamburger Helper Is Making Some Big Changes (2024)

FAQs

Did Hamburger Helper change their recipe? ›

Eagle Foods didn't stop with just making them quicker to cook. They altered the sauces, pasta, and flavorings based on what people said they wanted. Now, the meals will have richer tastes and seasonings across all the varieties. Plus, they've managed to do all this while keeping prices low.

Since being purchased by Eagle, Helper's sales have increased, but its market share remains flat. In 2022, Hamburger Helper generated $248.6 million in U.S. sales, or 19.5% of the quick recipe kits category, according to Euromonitor. Last year, Hamburger Helper sales hit $272.2 million, reaching a 20% market share.

As boxed, it consists of a dried carbohydrate (often pasta or rice), with powdered seasonings contained in a packet. The consumer is meant to combine the contents of the box with browned ground beef ("hamburger"), water, and, with some varieties, milk to create a complete one-dish meal.

I'm sure many of you remember having boxed “Hamburger Helper” as a kid. Although nostalgic and for some, delicious, this type of ultra-processed food shouldn't make its way into your (or your kids') diet often.

Water can be used as a substitute for milk in Hamburger Helper. Keep in mind that using water will result in a more basic flavor profile compared to using milk, as milk adds creaminess and richness. However, it can still produce a tasty and satisfying dish.

If your Hamburger Helper is too runny or juicy, the best way to thicken it up is to put the lid on the pan and let the mixture steam for at least five minutes. The macaroni will continue to absorb the liquid and the mixture will become thicker. If it always seems too thin, reduce the amount of liquid added.

Typically, an unopened box of Hamburger Helper is safe to consume beyond its "best by" date, provided it has been stored in a dry, cool place. Once prepared, the leftovers should be handled differently to maintain quality and safety.

The brand made its national debut in August 1971. With five flavors – Beef Noodle, Potato Stroganoff, Hash, Rice Oriental and Chili Tomato, it was an instant success. More than one in four – 27 percent – of U.S. households purchased Hamburger Helper in its first year.

Hamburger Helper without meat is quick and easy to make. Just use the same measure of liquid normally used. Depending on if you add extra veggies and which ones, the consistency can change. Add a fresh twist to Helper tonight!

Do I have to drain the meat for Hamburger Helper? ›

Cook ground beef in a skillet, drain liquid, and return beef to skillet. Stir in hot water, milk (or milk substitute), sauce mix, and pasta. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally.

27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Eagle Foods is re-launching the iconic Hamburger Helper brand, along with its legendary talking glove mascot, Lefty.

Contains 2% or less of: Modified Whey, Onion Powder, Color (caramel color, annatto extract), Maltodextrin, Potassium Chloride, Hydrolyzed Corn, Soy, and Wheat Protein, Yeast Extract, Natural And Artificial Flavor, Vegetable Oil (canola, soybean, and/or sunflower oil), Spice, Monoglycerides, Sugar, Safflower Oil, ...

The brand made its national debut in August 1971. With five flavors – Beef Noodle, Potato Stroganoff, Hash, Rice Oriental and Chili Tomato, it was an instant success. More than one in four – 27 percent – of U.S. households purchased Hamburger Helper in its first year. It was a bit surprising.

Does Hamburger Helper Expire? Hamburger Helper boxed meals have low moisture content and can keep fresh even past their expiration date. However, for best results and quality assurance, we recommend using your Hamburger Helper boxed meal by its expiration date.

Product details

ENDLESS OPTIONS: Add your own twist with additional ingredients and head to the Betty Crocker website for Hamburger Helper recipes and pastas the whole family will love.