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High Protein Hamburger Helper served in a bowl with fresh ingredients

High Protein Hamburger Helper

A creamy, one-pan meal packed with protein and veggies, perfect for those busy nights when you crave comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
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.