Low Sodium Homemade Hamburger Helper
Transform your weeknight dinners with this healthier take on a classic comfort food: Low Sodium Homemade Hamburger Helper. Packed with flavor and free from unnecessary salt, this recipe combines lean ground beef, whole wheat macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices like oregano, basil, and smoked paprika. Cheddar cheese melts into the dish for a creamy finish, making it irresistibly delicious while still heart-friendly. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder is perfect for busy families seeking a simple, wholesome meal with all the nostalgia of the original Hamburger Helper but none of the processed ingredients. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and freshness!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup unseasoned unsalted tomato sauce
- 2 cups whole wheat macaroni
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup medium cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in low sodium beef broth, water, tomato paste, and unsalted tomato sauce. Mix until well combined.
Add the whole wheat macaroni to the skillet, making sure it's evenly distributed.
Stir in the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated, about 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to thicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
356 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.6 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 67 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 235 mg | 10% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 36.0 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.2 g | ||
| Protein | 27.2 g | 54% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 183 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 4.5 mg | 25% | |
| Potassium | 366 mg | 8% | |
*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.
