Healthy Hamburger Helper Recipe
This Healthy Hamburger Helper recipe is a comforting, homemade twist on the classic boxed meal. Made with lean ground beef, wholesome spices, and creamy cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying one-pot dish featuring tender macaroni noodles simmered in a flavorful tomato and broth sauce. Perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85%/15% lean-to-fat ratio)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 2 heaping Tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk or dairy-free milk
- 8 oz dry uncooked macaroni noodles or small shells
- 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Saute: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Cook: Add the ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Combine: Stir in the paprika, oregano, chili powder, tomato paste, beef or chicken broth, and whole milk. Mix well, then add the dry macaroni noodles or small shells directly into the mixture.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer uncovered, stirring frequently for 8-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and incorporate into the sauce. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then toss everything gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve the healthy hamburger helper immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the dish healthier.
- You can substitute dairy-free milk to make it lactose-friendly.
- If you prefer, use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Adjust seasonings such as salt and chili powder according to your taste.
- For a creamier consistency, you can add a splash more milk while simmering.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: Healthy Hamburger Helper, hamburger helper recipe, homemade hamburger helper, easy ground beef dinner, quick skillet meals, creamy macaroni and beef, weeknight dinner, comfort food
Find it online: https://stirringwithstella.com/healthy-hamburger-helper-recipe/
