Healthy Hamburger Helper
Transform your weeknight dinners with this Healthy Hamburger Helper, a wholesome twist on the beloved classic! Made with lean ground turkey or beef, protein-packed whole wheat elbow macaroni, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, this one-pot wonder is as nutritious as it is comforting. Infused with aromatic spices like paprika, oregano, and ground mustard, and brightened with a touch of fresh parsley, this recipe skips the processed ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Perfectly suited for busy nights, it comes together in just 40 minutes and feeds the whole family with ease. Whether you're craving a hearty meal or looking for a kid-approved dinner option, this lighter take on a nostalgic favorite is sure to please.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey or beef
- 8 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups unsalted chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and swirl to coat.
Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the ground turkey or beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Stir in the paprika, oregano, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix to evenly coat the meat with the spices.
Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it is well incorporated with the seasoned meat.
Add the chicken or beef broth and milk to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Add the whole wheat elbow macaroni and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and forms a creamy sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy your healthier homemade Hamburger Helper!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
384 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.2 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.9 g | 35% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 76 mg | 25% | |
| Sodium | 541 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.2 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.6 g | ||
| Protein | 27.7 g | 55% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 225 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 2.6 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 400 mg | 9% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
