Homemade Hamburger Helper

This Homemade Hamburger Helper recipe provides a much healthier and tastier alternative to the boxed version. It’s packed with vegetables, lean protein, and whole wheat pasta, all brought together with a creamy cheddar sauce.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Homemade Hamburger Helper:

• Extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• Yellow onion and carrots: Adds sweetness and nutrients.
• Kosher salt and ground black pepper: To season the vegetables.
• Garlic cloves: For aromatic flavor.
• Lean ground beef: The main protein source.
• Hot sauce and Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
• Smoked paprika: Provides a smoky flavor.
• Reduced sodium beef broth and water: Forms the base of the sauce.
• Whole wheat elbow pasta: Adds fiber and a hearty texture.
• Plain nonfat Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein.
• Grated sharp cheddar cheese: For a cheesy flavor.
• Chopped chives: For garnish and flavor.

How to Make Homemade Hamburger Helper

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-low heat.
• Add onion, carrots, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is soft and browned.
• Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

• Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef.
• Break the meat into small pieces and cook until browned.
• Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Broth

• Return the pan to medium-high heat.
• Stir in hot sauce, Dijon, and smoked paprika.
• Add beef broth and scrape up any browned bits.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

• Add water and bring to a boil.
• Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring often.
• Add water if pasta becomes too dry.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Yogurt

• Remove from heat and let cool for 1 minute.
• Add Greek yogurt and cheddar cheese. Stir until melted.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Stir in half of the chives and sprinkle the rest on top.
• Serve hot.

How to Serve

• As a Main Course: Serve Homemade Hamburger Helper as a complete meal.
• With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a classic comfort food meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

• To Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: Rewarm in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
• To Freeze: Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  • Yes, you can use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or shells.
• Can I use a different type of ground meat?
  • Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
• Can I add other vegetables?
  • Yes, you can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas.
• Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
  • Greek yogurt is recommended for its thicker consistency and higher protein content, but regular yogurt can be used

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