Description
This Healthy Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe transforms a classic comfort meal into a nutritious, quick, and family-friendly dish. Featuring lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, and vibrant vegetables, it offers balanced nutrition and vibrant flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or anyone craving a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk or plant-based milk (almond, oat, etc.)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
Grains
- 2 cups whole wheat pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or penne)
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
Spices
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat to keep the meal light.
- Sauté Aromatics and Veggies: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, building a tasty foundation for your sauce.
- Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Pasta: Stir in the low-sodium beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and whole wheat pasta. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until pasta is tender, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Stir in Milk and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat. Pour in the milk and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and creamy. Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve Warm: Give everything a final stir to combine all flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then plate and enjoy your comforting, nutritious homemade hamburger helper.
Notes
- Use lean meat to reduce saturated fat.
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness while simmering.
- Do not skip the broth; it adds moisture and rich flavor better than water.
- Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt than pre-shredded.
- Simmer gently over low heat to avoid burning and achieve creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: healthy hamburger helper, lean ground beef recipe, quick family dinner, homemade hamburger helper, nutritious comfort food, whole wheat pasta recipe, easy weeknight meal
