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Healthy Homemade Hamburger Helper

Craving that nostalgic comfort food but want a healthier, homemade version? This healthy homemade hamburger helper recipe delivers all the cheesy, beefy goodness you remember, but with wholesome ingredients and a simple, one-pot preparation.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • 1 zucchini grated (about 1 cup grated)
  • 2 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 1 1/2 cups milk (use what you drink)
  • 1 1/2-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • fresh parsley for serving

Equipment

  • Large pot or dutch oven

Method
 

Brown the Beef & Aromatics
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, chopped yellow onion, and lean ground beef. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is fully browned, about 10 minutes. Stir in the chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Pasta & Liquids
  1. Add the short cut pasta and grated zucchini to the pot. Pour in the low-sodium beef broth and milk. Stir in the ketchup to combine. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer & Cook Pasta
  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover partially, and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Ensure the pasta doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
Get Cheesy
  1. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is very creamy. If you prefer a cheesier consistency, stir in the remaining 1/2 cup.
Serve
  1. Divide the creamy hamburger helper among bowls. Garnish generously with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy immediately!

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This healthy homemade hamburger helper is a testament to how comfort food can be both incredibly delicious and good for you. With its simple preparation, wholesome ingredients, and customizable nature, it’s destined to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy this elevated classic that’s sure to satisfy!
Store leftover hamburger helper in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave individual portions. This dish freezes reasonably well. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.

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