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Healthy Homemade One Pot Hamburger Helper Recipe

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4.2 from 14 reviews

This Healthy Homemade One Pot Hamburger Helper is a quick and comforting meal made with lean ground beef, pasta, and fresh zucchini, all simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family-friendly dinner that combines protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness in one pot with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • 1 zucchini, grated

Liquids and Cheese

  • 2 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, for serving

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef and onions: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and lean ground beef. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned all over and the onions are softened, breaking up the meat as you stir, about 10 minutes.
  2. Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their aroma.
  3. Add pasta and zucchini: Add the short cut pasta and grated zucchini to the pot. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the seasonings.
  4. Pour in liquids and ketchup: Pour in the low sodium beef broth and milk. Add the tablespoon of ketchup and stir well to combine. Taste and season with additional salt if needed.
  5. Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese melts and the mixture turns creamy.
  7. Serve: Divide the hamburger helper into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting homemade meal.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the dish healthier.
  • Feel free to substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Adjust the cheese amount to your liking for a creamier or less cheesy result.
  • Add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/healthy-homemade-one-pot-hamburger-helper-recipe/