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Healthy Homemade Hamburger Helper

Healthy Homemade Hamburger Helper
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A healthy, homemade take on the classic Hamburger Helper that combines lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt sauce. This one-pot meal is quick, nutritious, and customizable, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Dairy

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta (small shapes like elbow macaroni or rotini)

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, spinach, zucchini)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice

Liquids and Fats

  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (dried basil, oregano, thyme blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add the lean ground beef. Cook while breaking it up with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until fragrant and translucent. Stir in diced bell peppers or other chosen vegetables, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add Pasta, Broth, and Tomatoes: Pour in whole wheat pasta, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), and low-sodium beef broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  4. Stir in Creaminess and Seasonings: Remove from heat and fold in Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to create a creamy sauce. Season generously with smoked paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss in fresh spinach or peas if desired, allowing residual heat to wilt the greens.
  5. Finish and Serve: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and give everything a gentle stir. Serve hot, garnished with optional fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or green onions.

Notes

  • Choose 90% lean ground beef or ground turkey for a leaner dish.
  • Keep an eye on pasta cooking time to avoid mushiness.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the taste when added at the end.
  • Greek yogurt adds protein and tang; for richer sauce, add a splash of milk or broth.
  • Cook everything in one pot for easier cleanup and better flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy hamburger helper, homemade hamburger helper, one pot dinner, ground beef pasta, quick dinner, family meal, wholesome, nutritious, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/healthy-homemade-hamburger-helper/