High-Protein Hamburger Helper Recipe
This High-Protein Hamburger Helper is a comforting, protein-packed twist on the classic pantry favorite. Ground beef is simmered with spices, tomato paste, and beef bone broth, then combined with high-protein elbow pasta and rich sharp cheddar cheese. Finished with creamy Greek yogurt and fresh chives, this hearty skillet meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 1 lb. ground beef (preferably 90% lean)
- 8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar
- 1/2 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
Produce
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- Thinly sliced chives, for garnish (optional)
Pantry
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 3 1/2 cups low-sodium beef bone broth
- 8 oz. high-protein elbow pasta (such as Barilla)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Tomato Paste: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, heat the olive oil. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become softened and translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly to coat the onions, until the paste darkens slightly in color, around 2 to 3 minutes total.
- Cook Ground Beef and Season: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the chili powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Using a wooden spoon, break up the beef and cook until it is fully browned and no longer pink, approximately 7 minutes.
- Add Broth and Pasta and Simmer: Pour in the low-sodium beef bone broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the high-protein elbow pasta and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite (al dente), about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese and Yogurt: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and whole-milk Greek yogurt until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with thinly sliced chives, if desired, for a fresh pop of flavor. Serve hot for a nutritious and filling meal.
Notes
- Using 90% lean ground beef helps keep the dish flavorful but lower in fat.
- Be sure to stir the tomato paste thoroughly to avoid burning and develop a deep, rich flavor.
- High-protein pasta increases the dish’s protein content, making it more satiating.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while reducing the need for extra cheese or sour cream.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce when cooking the beef.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: high-protein, skillet meal, ground beef, pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, healthy hamburger helper
Find it online: https://flavorsbymaya.com/high-protein-hamburger-helper-recipe/
