Grandma H's Tex Mex Chili
Grandma H’s Homemade “Hamburger Helper”: A New Year’s Tradition
This old family recipe has a story as warm and comforting as the dish itself. I was first introduced to it by my then-boyfriend’s mom (who later became my beloved mother-in-law). It was New Year’s Eve in the small town where my husband grew up, and this dish was the perfect meal before heading out to celebrate.
It wasn’t just delicious—it did an excellent job of ensuring we had something hearty to eat before enjoying “a couple” of glasses of champagne to ring in the New Year. And as a bonus, it was just as good when we came home in the wee hours of the morning, craving a quick snack before falling into bed.
Now, if you think about it, this recipe might just be the original Hamburger Helper. Long before the food industry came up with its processed version, Grandma H had already mastered the concept of a simple, quick, and incredibly tasty meal. And while I’ve never tried the store-bought version (I’ll always prefer homemade), I can’t imagine it holds a candle to the flavor and love packed into this family recipe.
What makes it even better is the convenience. This dish comes together in no time, with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s proof that delicious, comforting meals don’t need to be complicated.
Grandma H’s recipe is a reminder of family, love, and the joy of sharing a homemade meal. It’s quick, hearty, and full of flavor—perfect for any time of year, but especially when celebrating the New Year.
Bottom line? This dish is a classic for a reason: simple, delicious, and made with love. ❤️🍝✨
Grandma H’s Tex Mex Chili
Special Note: This recipe makes a big batch, which is a real bonus because leftovers are just as good!
Ingredients:
2c chopped celery
2 large sweet onions
1lb ground beef (I use extra lean)
1 tin Campbell’s tomatoe soup
5 tbsp ketchup
juice of 1 lemon
1/2 tsp chili powder
4 tsp curry powder
salt and pepper (to taste)
300gms macaroni
Instructions:
Chop celery and onions.
Saute until onions just begin to caramelize.
In a separate large pot, begin to boil water for macaroni.
Add ground beef and saute until just beginning to brown.
Add tomatoe soup, ketchup and juice of 1 lemon and continue to saute.
Simmer 15 minutes and then add chili and curry powder. Taste for salt and pepper seasoning. (Note: Every lemon is a little different. If the mixture is too bitter, add a touch of brown sugar.)
While simmering, add macaroni and cook until done. Drain water off cooked macaroni.
Add macaroni to meat mixture and toss to coat.
For serving - sometimes a little grated cheddar cheese is a lovely topping or a scoop or two of sour cream.
