Go Back
+ servings
Healthy Hamburger Helper

The Best Healthy Hamburger Helper for Quick Weeknight Dinners

This Healthy Hamburger Helper is a nutritious and quick dinner option, combining flavors of beloved childhood comfort food.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Comfort Foods
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil avocado oil is a great substitute
  • 1 medium Onion use yellow or white onions based on your preference
  • 2 medium Carrots substitute with diced bell peppers for variety
  • 3 cloves Garlic fresh garlic is best
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef ground turkey or plant-based protein can be used
  • to taste Salt and Pepper adjust while cooking
For the Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder can replace with taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika can be used
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Macaroni Noodles use gluten-free macaroni for a gluten-free option
For the Creaminess
  • 3 cups Broth chicken, beef, or vegetable
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt can substitute with sour cream or plant-based yogurt
  • ¼ cup Ketchup choose a sugar-free version for added health benefits
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese swap with vegan cheese for dairy-free option
For Garnish
  • to taste Chopped Parsley fresh herbs to add color and freshness
  • to taste Chives use any fresh herbs you enjoy

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

How to Make Healthy Hamburger Helper
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. While the oil is heating, peel and dice one medium onion, chop two medium carrots, and mince three cloves of garlic.
  3. Add the diced onions, chopped carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
  4. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for approximately 10 minutes until browned.
  5. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Stir and cook for an additional minute.
  6. Stir in 2 cups of macaroni noodles, 3 cups of broth, 1 cup of Greek yogurt, and ¼ cup of ketchup. Ensure each ingredient is well combined.
  7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes.
  8. Remove the pot from heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  9. Plate your Healthy Hamburger Helper hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or chives. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Leftovers can last in the fridge for up to three days; store in an airtight container.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!