Description

This Healthier Homemade One Pot Hamburger Helper is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that brings together lean ground beef, pasta, and vegetables in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a nutritious twist on the classic boxed meal, featuring fresh zucchini and reduced-sodium ingredients for a healthier family dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 zucchini, grated (about 1 cup grated)

Spices and Seasonings

Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Pasta and Liquids

1 pound short cut pasta
2 cups low sodium beef broth
1 1/2 cups milk (use your preferred type)
1 tablespoon ketchup

Cheese and Garnish

1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, for serving

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Instructions

Brown the Beef and Sauté Onion: 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 until the beef is browned all over, breaking up the meat as it cooks, about 10 minutes. Stir in chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder, cooking for an additional minute to let the spices bloom.
Add Pasta and Zucchini: Toss in the short cut pasta and grated zucchini, coating them well in the beef and spices. This step incorporates the vegetables seamlessly into the dish.
Pour Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the low sodium beef broth and milk, then add the ketchup and stir everything to combine evenly. Season again with salt to your taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
Cook Pasta: Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cheese and Finish: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooking for a few more minutes until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is fully melted.
Serve: Spoon the cheesy beef pasta into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.

Notes

You can substitute the short cut pasta with any quick-cooking pasta such as elbow macaroni or shells.
For a lighter version, opt for reduced-fat cheese and milk.
To boost the veggie content, add finely chopped bell peppers or spinach along with zucchini.
If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
Calories: 430
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg