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High Protein Hamburger Helper

High Protein Hamburger Helper: Comfort Food Reimagined

Discover a wholesome twist on a childhood favorite with High Protein Hamburger Helper, combining savory ground beef, pasta, and hidden veggies for a nutritious meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Base
  • 1 pound ground beef Substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1 cup beef broth Vegetable broth serves as a vegetarian alternative.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups pasta (pipette rigate) Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can be used as alternatives.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup tomato sauce Marinara or homemade sauce can be substituted.
  • 1 cup cottage cheese Ricotta can be swapped for a different texture.
  • 1 cup skim milk Substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup zucchini Yellow squash is a suitable substitute.
  • 1 cup carrot Can be replaced with additional zucchini or kale.
  • 1 cup sweet onion Yellow onion can be used in place of sweet onion.
  • 3 cloves garlic Garlic powder may be used as a quick alternative.
For Cooking and Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Avocado oil can be a substitute.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Mozzarella can be used for a milder taste.
  • spices (smoked paprika, oregano, ground mustard, red pepper flakes) Adjust to taste or omit if milder flavors are preferred.
  • salt and pepper Essential for enhancing flavors in the dish.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add diced zucchini, grated carrot, chopped sweet onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and aromatic. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, then remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add 1 pound of ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes until it's browned and no pink remains. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices like smoked paprika and oregano.
  3. Combine the sautéed vegetable mixture with 1 cup of tomato sauce and 1 cup of cottage cheese in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture back into the skillet with the browned beef, stirring to incorporate everything well.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of skim milk and 1 cup of beef broth into the skillet, stirring continuously to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  5. Once the sauce reaches a gentle boil, stir in 2 cups of pipette rigate pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 8-11 minutes, checking for doneness.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This recipe is customizable; feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the seasoning to fit your taste preferences. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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