Description
A healthier take on the classic comfort food, this homemade one-pot hamburger helper uses lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and a flavorful blend of spices. It’s easy to prepare, cooks in just 30 minutes, and combines pasta and protein in a creamy, savory sauce perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or skim milk
- 1 ½ cups beef broth, low sodium
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, reduced-fat
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Drain excess fat: If needed, carefully drain any excess fat from the beef and onion mixture to reduce greasiness and keep the dish healthier.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the almond milk (or skim milk), low-sodium beef broth, and water. Add the elbow macaroni pasta, tomato paste, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine all flavors evenly.
- Simmer pasta: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Add cheese and season: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust salt as needed for seasoning.
- Rest the dish: Let the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly, enhancing the texture.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the hamburger helper hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add color and a fresh flavor note.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content while keeping protein high.
- You can substitute almond milk with skim milk or any other low-fat milk alternative.
- Keep stirring occasionally during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on preference for creaminess and flavor.
- This recipe can be customized by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
