Description
Say goodbye to boxed dinners and hello to this Healthier Homemade One Pot Hamburger Helper! This creamy, hearty dish delivers all the comfort and flavor of the classic but with a nutritious twist. Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal the whole family will love—and it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (reduced-fat if desired)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for a creamy texture and extra protein)
Optional add-ins:
- 1 cup diced vegetables (like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Season the Dish
- Stir in the paprika, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt, mixing well to coat the beef.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Pasta
- Pour in the broth, milk, and elbow macaroni. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Greek Yogurt
- Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
- Gently mix in the Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking.
- Boost Nutrition: Add diced veggies like zucchini or frozen peas to sneak in extra vitamins.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture looks too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grating your own cheese ensures a smoother melt without additives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American