Description

This Healthy Hamburger Helper recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food dish. Made with lean ground beef, hearty pasta, and a flavorful blend of spices, tomato paste, and broth, it’s perfect for a family-friendly meal that comes together on the stovetop in under 40 minutes. The addition of shredded mild cheddar cheese adds creamy richness, while fresh parsley provides a bright finish. This dish is ideal for those seeking a balanced and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean 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 Sauces

2 heaping Tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups beef or chicken broth
2 cups whole milk or dairy-free milk

Pasta and Cheese

8 oz dry uncooked macaroni noodles or small shells
2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese

Garnish

Fresh parsley (for serving)

Instructions

Saute: Add olive oil to a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven and heat over medium. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
Cook: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt and black pepper. Cook the beef for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish healthy.
Combine: Stir in the paprika, oregano, chili powder, and tomato paste until well combined. Add the beef or chicken broth and milk, mixing thoroughly. Then, add the uncooked macaroni or small shell pasta to the liquid mixture.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 8-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This ensures the pasta cooks perfectly in the flavorful sauce.
Add cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded mild cheddar cheese. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly, creating a creamy texture. Toss everything to combine evenly.
Serve: Serve the Hamburger Helper immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

Notes

Using lean ground beef (85% or leaner) helps reduce the fat content without compromising flavor.
You can substitute the milk with any dairy-free milk alternative, like almond or oat milk, to make it lactose-free.
Drain excess fat after cooking the beef to make this recipe healthier.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Healthy Hamburger Helper, ground beef pasta, easy skillet dinner, low fat comfort food, stovetop hamburger helper