Hamburger Helper Protein-Packed

You’re going to love this homemade protein packed Hamburger Helper! It’s cheesy, full of flavor, and comes together in one pot with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners the whole family will enjoy.

Sometimes you just want a big bowl of Hamburger Helper without the boxed mix. Plus you are trying to get in extra protein. My homemade version of Hamburger Helper has all the creamy, cheesy goodness you remember, but it’s protein packed and made with accessible ingredients. I used chickpea pasta for this recipe but read the substitutions below if you’d like to keep the recipe low carb!

How To Make

Start by browning 1 ½ pounds of ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. As the beef cooks, add in ½ cup chopped onion and sauté until softened. Stir in the tomato paste and seasonings: smoked paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili powder and dried parsley. These spices give the dish a wonderful flavor base that tastes better than anything from a box.

Next, mix in tomato paste, beef stock Worcestershire sauce, stirring well. Add pasta, I like using Banza chickpea pasta for extra protein, but you can use whatever you like. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.

Stir in plain Greek yogurt for creaminess. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Cook 5 more minutes and serve.

Substitutions

Meat: You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Each brings its own flavor, so use what your family enjoys most.

Pasta: I used Banza chickpea pasta in this recipe for extra protein, but any short pasta such as elbow, rotini, or shells will work. If you’re gluten free, there are plenty of pasta options available. For a lower carb hamburger helper, try using bite-size cauliflower florets or chunks of zucchini in place of pasta, they hold up well and soak in all the flavor.

Dairy: Plain Greek yogurt gives the dish a creamy texture with added protein, but you can substitute sour cream if you prefer. Cheddar cheese is classic but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a shredded blend are also great choices.

Seasonings: Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika works too. Want more spice? A pinch of cayenne will turn up the heat. You’ll noticed this recipe is heavy on the Worcestershire sauce. It adds so much flavor and we love it! You can always cut back on it if you aren’t a fan.

Storage

This dish reheats well, making it great for leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so when reheating, add a splash of beef stock or even a little milk to loosen it up. I don’t recommend freezing since the pasta tends to get mushy, but if you do, undercook the pasta slightly before freezing.

You’re going to want to add this recipe to your regular rotation. The family will love it! This protein packed Hamburger Helper is creamy, cheesy, and so simple to make with everyday ingredients. If cozy comfort food is your thing, don’t miss my Easy Cheesy Beef Tortellini Soup.