Weather: 65 degrees with a slight breeze, so pretty nice
Preparation time: 30 minutes

Tonight I made Hamburger Helper; it's my husbands favorite. I had never made this before I was married. I thought is was supposed to be gross and nasty...turns out it's not so bad. Just follow the directions on the back of the box and enjoy!

Now, maybe because I never got accustomed to making it; but every time I make any of these dishes (and there are a whole bunch to choose from) it always comes out soupy. So, I have been experimenting with timing and measurements. Tonight it was fairly decent. I added an additional 10 minutes uncovered simmer time and probably 1/4 cup less water.

So, here's the score:
Appropriate for the weather: 4. It was okay, but the kitchen warmed up a little uncomfortably
Filling: 5.
Healthy 3. I am sure this is not the healthiest meal ever; after all, it comes in a box!
Ease: 3.5. You do have to be able to brown beef and follow directions