Description
This healthier homemade one pot hamburger helper is a comforting and easy weeknight meal that combines lean ground beef, pasta, and vegetables in a creamy cheesy sauce. With simple pantry spices and fresh zucchini grated for added nutrition, this dish is prepared all in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
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 (about 1 cup grated)
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk (use your preferred type)
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Additional Flavor
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- Fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and add the chopped onion and ground beef. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned all over and the onions are softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in the chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder, and cook for another minute to release the spices’ aroma.
- Add pasta and zucchini: Stir in the short cut pasta and grated zucchini to the pot, tossing to coat them with the meat and spices.
- Pour liquids and season: Add the low sodium beef broth, milk, and ketchup to the pot. Stir well to combine and season again with salt as needed.
- Simmer until pasta is cooked: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer, stirring often to prevent sticking, for 5-8 minutes until the pasta is al dente and cooked through.
- Incorporate cheese and finish: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Cook for an additional few minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Divide the hamburger helper into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef keeps the dish lower in fat while retaining flavor.
- Grating zucchini adds moisture, nutrients, and a subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish.
- You can substitute milk with any type of milk you prefer, including dairy-free alternatives.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your taste for a creamier or milder sauce.
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
