Servings: 8 Total Time: 45 mins
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High Protein Hamburger Helper (One Pot)

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 35 mins Total Time 45 mins
Servings: 8 Nutrition: 459 cal | 41g protein | 48g carbs | 11g fat |

Description

This One-Pot High Protein Hamburger Helper is a healthier take on the nostalgic classic, packed with over half a pound of hidden vegetables! With lean ground beef and fresh veggies, this simple recipe delivers high protein in every bite. Best of all, it comes together in just one pot—no extra dishes needed! It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights, combining comfort food flavors with the nutrition you need. A quick, easy, and protein-packed meal everyone will love!

459 cal | 41g protein | 48g carbs | 11g fat |

Serving Size: 318g/ 11.2oz. Recipe makes 8 servings

MyFitnessPal: High Protein Hamburger Helper EHK

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

Cheese Sauce

Instructions

  1. In a large pan with a lid, heat over medium heat and add the 96/4% lean ground beef. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt, and cook, breaking up the beef, until browned. About 8 minutes.
  2. Add the diced onion, shredded zucchini, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the paprika, ground black pepper, granulated garlic, chili powder, and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the spices and tomato paste to combine and coat the beef mixture.
  4. Add the 16 oz of dry pasta to the pan, then pour in the chicken broth and Fairlife fat-free milk. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. If the liquid in the pan doesn’t come up all the way to the pasta, add up to 1 cup of water. The liquid level should be just below the pasta and meat mixture.
  5. Cover the pan with the lid and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes (check the package directions for the specific pasta you're using).
  6. In a blender or food processor, combine 1.5 cups low-fat cottage cheese (339g), 2 ounces shredded Tillamook sharp cheddar, 1 slice of Kraft singles cheese (optional), 1 tsp Dijon mustard (5g), and 1 garlic clove. The Kraft cheese is optional but will help keep the sauce from breaking when added to the meat and pasta mixture. For best results, you can let the sauce come to room temperature before adding it to the pan, which also helps prevent it from breaking.
  1. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, delicious, and healthier version of Hamburger Helper!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8


Amount Per Serving
Calories 459kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 17mg6%
Sodium 581mg25%
Potassium 232mg7%
Total Carbohydrate 48g16%
Dietary Fiber 2g8%
Sugars 6g
Protein 41g82%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

*Substitute 2 cups of chicken broth with 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of Better Than Bouillon, chicken flavor.

459 cal | 41g protein | 48g carbs | 11g fat |

Serving Size: 318g/ 11.2oz. Recipe makes 8 servings

MyFitnessPal: High Protein Hamburger Helper EHK

*All nutrition information provided is an estimate. While all efforts have been made to be accurate, variations can occur due to ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.

Keywords: High Protein Dinner, One Pot, Ground Beef, Hamburger Helper, Hidden Vegetables, One Pot Pasta Dinner

Kirsten Moser

Weight Loss Recipe Developer

I’m here to support your weight loss journey with my recipes!

Each one is designed to help you reach your goals with delicious, lower-calorie, high-protein meals that don’t compromise on flavor.

Together, we can achieve a healthier lifestyle with tasty, high-protein, low-calorie dishes.

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