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Healthy Hamburger Helper Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 82 reviews

This Healthy Hamburger Helper recipe is a deliciously comforting one-pan meal featuring lean ground beef, tender macaroni, and a creamy tomato-cheese sauce. Enhanced with paprika, oregano, and chili powder, this dish is easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner that’s both flavorful and wholesome.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean/15% fat preferred)
  • 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

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Saute: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and saute for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  2. Cook: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes, breaking up the meat and stirring until it is fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  3. Combine: Stir in paprika, oregano, chili powder, and tomato paste until meat is evenly coated. Then add beef or chicken broth along with the milk. Mix in the dry macaroni noodles, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
  4. Simmer: Increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer and cook for 8-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the dish to sit for 1-2 minutes so the cheese melts thoroughly, then toss to combine everything evenly.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately while warm for a comforting and hearty meal.

Notes

  • Use leaner ground beef for a healthier option or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for variation.
  • Milk can be substituted with any dairy-free alternative such as almond or oat milk for lactose intolerance.
  • Keep stirring during simmer to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  • If the dish thickens too much before pasta is cooked, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright finish but can be omitted or replaced with other fresh herbs like basil or chives.

Keywords: Hamburger Helper, healthy dinner, ground beef recipe, one pot meal, easy weeknight dinner, creamy macaroni, quick ground beef pasta

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/healthy-hamburger-helper-recipe/