Description
This Healthier Homemade One Pot Hamburger Helper is a comforting, cheesy pasta meal made with lean ground beef, fresh zucchini, and a blend of spices. Prepared in one pot, it’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that combines hearty flavors with nutritious ingredients for a wholesome family-friendly meal.
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 Cheese
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk (use preferred type)
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, chopped onion, and lean ground beef. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat as it browns evenly, for about 10 minutes until fully browned. Stir in chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder and cook for another minute to release their flavors.
- Add Pasta and Zucchini: Stir in the short cut pasta and grated zucchini, tossing to coat them well with the seasoned beef mixture.
- Add Liquids and Ketchup: Pour in the low sodium beef broth and milk, then add the ketchup. Stir everything to combine evenly. Season with additional salt if needed.
- Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Incorporate Cheese and Finish Cooking: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese is melted throughout.
- Serve: Divide the cheesy hamburger pasta among bowls and top with fresh parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the dish healthier.
- Grating zucchini adds moisture and nutrition while sneaking in extra vegetables.
- Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with a lower-fat cheese for a lighter option.
- Low sodium beef broth helps control salt but adjust seasoning to your taste.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
