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High-Protein Hamburger Helper Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 11 reviews
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This High-Protein Hamburger Helper is a hearty and nutritious twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, it provides a satisfying meal with extra protein to keep you energized. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver a flavorful and filling dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 2 cups whole wheat elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Measure out the pasta, broth, and other ingredients to have everything ready for cooking.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
  4. Add Seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
  5. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well and bring to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the whole wheat elbow macaroni.
  6. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Finish with Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
  8. Serve: Scoop the High-Protein Hamburger Helper onto plates and enjoy hot for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber and protein content.
  • Adjust spices to taste for more or less heat.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

Find it online: https://cookedbylina.com/high-protein-hamburger-helper-recipe/