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Healthy Hamburger Helper Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 70 reviews

This Healthy Hamburger Helper recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic comfort food. Made with lean ground beef, savory spices, tomato paste, broth, and pasta, it delivers a hearty, cheesy meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The use of whole milk and fresh parsley adds richness and freshness, making it a satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

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

Spices and Seasonings

  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

Liquids and Pasta

  • 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

Dairy and Garnish

  • 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley, for serving

Instructions

  1. Sauté: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions are softened and the mixture is fragrant.
  2. Cook the beef: Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Season with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, breaking the meat apart and stirring until fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  3. Combine ingredients: Stir in 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon chili powder, and 2 heaping tablespoons of tomato paste into the beef mixture. Pour in 2 cups of beef or chicken broth and 2 cups of whole milk or dairy-free milk. Then add 8 ounces of dry macaroni noodles or small shells directly into the skillet.
  4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and cook for about 8 to 12 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Add cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese. Let the mixture sit for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and well combined.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the healthy hamburger helper immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • You can use leaner ground beef if preferred, such as 90% lean or higher for a lower fat dish.
  • Feel free to substitute the whole milk with your favorite dairy-free milk to make it dairy-free.
  • To add more vegetables, consider stirring in chopped bell peppers or spinach during the sauté step.
  • Adjust seasoning and salt to taste after cooking, especially if using low-sodium broth.
  • If you want a spicier kick, add more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Keywords: Healthy Hamburger Helper, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, one-pot meal, lean beef, comfort food

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