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High Protein Hamburger Helper

High Protein Hamburger Helper That Upgrades Comfort Food

This High Protein Hamburger Helper combines tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and rich cheddar cheese for a deliciously healthy comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Swap with turkey for a leaner option.
  • 8 oz Pasta (Pipette Rigate) Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Marinara or homemade sauce can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Beef Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian alternative.
  • 1 cup Cottage Cheese Swap with ricotta for a different texture.
  • 1/2 cup Skim Milk Almond milk works as a dairy-free substitute.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Use mozzarella for a milder taste.
For the Veggie Mix
  • 1 medium Carrot Could be replaced with additional zucchini or kale.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Substitute with yellow squash if needed.
  • 1 medium Sweet Onion Yellow onion is a suitable alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Can use garlic powder in a pinch.
For Seasoning and Sautéing
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • Spices (Smoked Paprika, Oregano, Ground Mustard, Red Pepper Flakes) Enhance flavor; adjust to taste or omit if mild flavors are preferred.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing other flavors.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Essential for enhancing other flavors.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté zucchini, carrot, onion, and garlic for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  2. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and brown the ground beef, breaking it apart until nicely browned (5-7 minutes).
  3. Blend the sautéed veggie mixture with tomato sauce and cottage cheese until smooth; return to skillet.
  4. Pour in the skim milk and beef broth, stir and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Stir in the pipette rigate pasta, cover, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 8-11 minutes until al dente.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in sharp cheddar cheese until melted and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For optimal texture, blend the veggie mixture until smooth. Adjust the thickness of the sauce based on preference.

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