Hamburger Helper Copycat

2 cups nonfat dry instant milk
¼ cup corn starch
¼ cup unsalted  chicken or beef bouillon powder
2 Tablespoons onion flakes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons dried parsley
1 Tablespoon garlic powder

Mix the ingredients together and store in an air tight container.  Use the above “helper” mix as a base for the following dinners.  (each serves 4 to 6 people)

Ground Beef Stroganoff

Brown 1 pound ground beef or turkey and drain off the fat.  Add 2 cups water, ½ cup “helper” mix and 2 cups uncooked egg noodles and stir.  Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes or until noodles are tender.  Top with ½ cup sour cream.

Hearty Potato Casserole

Brown 1 pound ground beef or turkey and drain off the fat.  Add  ¾ cup water, 6 peeled potatoes (sliced very thin), 1 cup of frozen mixed peas and carrots and ½ cup plus 1 Tablespoon “helper” mix.  Simmer covered 20-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.  Stir, uncover and cook until excess water is evaporated.