Vegan Hamburger Helper with Spicy Seasoned “Beef” and Plant-Based Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Vegan Hamburger Helper is a comforting and flavorful plant-based take on a classic dish. Packed with seasoned vegan ground “beef” crumbles and creamy vegan mac and cheese, it’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (avocado oil, canola oil, olive oil, etc.)
• 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 pound vegan ground “beef” crumbles
• ½ cup canned tomato sauce
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon packed light brown sugar
• 2 boxes vegan mac and cheese (prepared according to package instructions)
• Chopped chives, green onions, or cilantro, to garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium sauté pan, warm the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Mix chili powder, cumin, coriander, salt, oregano, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Add this spice blend to the cooked onions and garlic, stirring well.
3. Step 3: After about thirty seconds, add the vegan ground “beef” crumbles to the pan. Break them apart with your spoon and mix thoroughly with the spices and onions.
4. Step 4: Stir in the tomato sauce, vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Let the mixture simmer gently for about ten minutes to develop flavor and thicken slightly.
5. Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare your preferred brand or homemade vegan mac and cheese according to the package or recipe instructions.
6. Step 6: In a serving bowl, combine the prepared vegan mac and cheese with the seasoned ground “beef” mixture. Mix well, garnish with chopped chives, green onions, or cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use avocado oil for a mild, buttery flavor, or olive oil for a more robust taste.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness; omit if you prefer mild dishes.
• Try adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauté for extra texture and nutrients.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure the vegan mac and cheese you use is made with gluten-free pasta.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of vegan protein instead of ground “beef” crumbles?

Yes, you can substitute with other plant-based proteins like crumbled tempeh, cooked lentils, or tofu for a similar texture and protein boost.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

It can be frozen, but the texture of the vegan mac and cheese may change slightly after thawing. Freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Vegan Hamburger Helper with Spicy Seasoned “Beef” and Plant-Based Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 143 reviews

This Vegan Hamburger Helper recipe is a flavorful, plant-based twist on the classic comfort food. Featuring seasoned vegan ground crumbles and creamy vegan mac and cheese, it’s a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The recipe incorporates bold spices and simple ingredients, making it an accessible and delicious choice for vegan diners.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Vegan Hamburger Mixture

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (avocado oil, canola oil, olive oil, etc.)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 pound vegan ground “beef” crumbles
• ½ cup canned tomato sauce
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon packed light brown sugar

For the Mac and Cheese

• 2 boxes vegan mac and cheese (prepared according to package instructions)

For Garnish (Optional)

• Chopped chives, green onions, or cilantro, to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a medium sauté pan over medium heat. Once hot, add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
2. Combine Spices: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Add this seasoning blend to the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring to incorporate evenly. Let cook for about thirty seconds to bloom the spices.
3. Cook Vegan Grounds: Add the vegan ground “beef” crumbles to the pan. Use a spoon to break up the crumbles and mix thoroughly with the onion and spice mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the tomato sauce, vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and sprinkled light brown sugar. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about ten minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
5. Prepare Mac and Cheese: While the ground mixture simmers, prepare the vegan mac and cheese according to the package instructions or your preferred homemade recipe.
6. Combine and Serve: In a large serving bowl, mix the cooked vegan mac and cheese with the seasoned vegan ground mixture until well integrated. Garnish with chopped chives, green onions, or cilantro as desired. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty vegan comfort meal!

Notes

• You can use any brand or homemade vegan mac and cheese to suit your taste and dietary needs.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
• For added texture and flavor, consider sautéing some diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions.
• This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings or meal prepping.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: vegan hamburger helper, plant-based dinner, vegan mac and cheese, easy vegan recipes, vegan comfort food, quick vegan meals