High Protein Hamburger Helper

Ever had a dish that fills you up and warms your soul?

High Protein Hamburger Helper is just that! This creamy, one-pan wonder is perfect for those busy nights when you crave comfort food without the fuss. With a blend of wholesome ingredients and that savory cheesiness we all love, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without any complaints!

Why make this recipe

Let’s be real—dinner should be easy, satisfying, and preferably one-pan! You’ll love this recipe because:

• Quick cleanup means more time to binge your favorite show. Who doesn’t love that?
• It’s affordable—using ground beef or turkey keeps the costs low, even for big families.
• Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a family-friendly meal that won’t break the bank or any spirits!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!

• 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey)
• 8 oz Pasta (Pipette Rigate, whole grain, or gluten-free)
• 1 cup Tomato Sauce (Marinara or homemade)
• 1 cup Beef Broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup Cottage Cheese (or ricotta)
• 1/2 cup Skim Milk (or almond milk)
• 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1 medium Carrot (or zucchini/kale)
• 1 medium Zucchini (or yellow squash)
• 1 medium Sweet Onion (or yellow onion)
• 2 cloves Garlic (or garlic powder)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
• Spices (Smoked Paprika, Oregano, Ground Mustard, Red Pepper Flakes)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Stir in diced onion, garlic, carrot, and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add pasta, tomato sauce, beef broth, and milk. Stir everything to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Incorporate cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and spices to taste. Enjoy!

How to make High Protein Hamburger Helper (Overview)

Making High Protein Hamburger Helper is as simple as it sounds! Start by browning your beef—nothing like that sizzle to bring the family to the kitchen, right? Then add your veggies for some crunch and color, followed by your pasta and sauces. It cooks all together in one pan, so you won’t have a mountain of dishes to tackle afterward. Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, don’t skip toasting the garlic—it elevates the whole dish! 🍽️

How to serve High Protein Hamburger Helper

For the perfect serving, plop a generous scoop on a plate and top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color. The melty cheese and vibrant veggies create a feast for the eyes as much as the palate! Pair it with a side salad to add some freshness, or go rogue and serve it with garlic bread—because carbs are life, right? 🥖

How to store High Protein Hamburger Helper

If you have leftovers (doubtful, but just in case!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—just make sure to let it cool completely before popping it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Easy peasy! ❄️

Tips to make High Protein Hamburger Helper

• Use lean ground turkey for a lighter version—still delicious and packed with protein!
• Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand. Spinach or bell peppers are great additions.
• Can’t find certain spices? No worries, a pinch of seasoning can make your dish personal and unique!

Variation

Want to give it a twist? Go for a vegan version by using lentils instead of meat, and swap out dairy for plant-based milk and cheese. For a kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a scoop of salsa for a Southwest flair. The sky’s the limit!

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and serve!

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Just cool it down before freezing in an airtight container. It keeps well for a couple of months.

3. What can I substitute for pasta?
Try using quinoa or brown rice if you’re in a low-carb mood. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

High Protein Hamburger Helper

A creamy, one-pan meal packed with protein and veggies, perfect for those busy nights when you crave comfort food.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey) For a lighter option, use lean ground turkey.
• 8 oz Pasta (Pipette Rigate, whole grain, or gluten-free)
• 1 cup Tomato Sauce (Marinara or homemade)
• 1 cup Beef Broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup Cottage Cheese (or ricotta)
• 1/2 cup Skim Milk (or almond milk)
• 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (or mozzarella) For a different flavor, use mozzarella.

Vegetables

• 1 medium Carrot (or zucchini/kale) Feel free to swap for other veggies.
• 1 medium Zucchini (or yellow squash)
• 1 medium Sweet Onion (or yellow onion)
• 2 cloves Garlic (or garlic powder) To elevate the flavor, toast the garlic.

Spices and Oil

• 2 tbsp Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• to taste Spices (Smoked Paprika, Oregano, Ground Mustard, Red Pepper Flakes) Adjust based on personal preference.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Stir in diced onion, garlic, carrot, and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Cooking

1. Add pasta, tomato sauce, beef broth, and milk. Stir everything to combine.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.

Finishing Touches

1. Incorporate cottage cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and spices to taste. Enjoy!

Notes

For serving, top with fresh herbs, and pair with a side salad or garlic bread. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.