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High Protein Hamburger Helper That Upgrades Comfort Food Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 52 reviews

This High Protein Hamburger Helper recipe upgrades classic comfort food by combining tender pipette rigate pasta, savory ground beef, and sharp cheddar cheese with a creamy, veggie-packed sauce. It is a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners, delivering a protein boost with a balanced blend of vegetables and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

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 (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)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the shredded zucchini, grated carrot, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender and aromatic. Remove from the skillet and set aside in a bowl.
  2. Brown the Beef: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the ground beef. Break it apart and cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until nicely browned. Season the beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, ground mustard, and red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor.
  3. Create the Veggie Sauce: Blend the sautéed veggie mixture with the tomato sauce and cottage cheese until smooth using a blender or immersion blender. Return this creamy mixture to the skillet.
  4. Add the Liquids: Pour in the skim milk and beef broth, stirring to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat slightly and bring the sauce to a gentle boil to deepen the flavors.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the pipette rigate pasta, ensuring it is well-coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 8-11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, tender yet firm.
  6. Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated, creating a creamy coating. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For optimal texture, blend the veggie mixture until completely smooth to enhance mouthfeel.
  • Monitor pasta cooking closely; undercooking slightly is preferred as it will soften more after cooking.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by varying cottage cheese and milk or broth ratios to your preference.
  • Adjust spice levels to taste, starting with less and adding more as desired.
  • Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or kale for extra nutrition.

Keywords: High Protein Hamburger Helper, Comfort Food, Ground Beef Pasta, Cheesy Pasta Skillet, Healthy Hamburger Helper

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/high-protein-hamburger-helper-that-upgrades-comfort-food-recipe/