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Healthy Summer Hamburger Helper

A lighter, veggie-packed version of the classic comfort food, made in one pan with fresh summer produce and a creamy, tangy sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef 90/10
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium zucchini diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • grater
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add onion and garlic. Cook 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in zucchini and bell pepper. Cook 3 minutes, until slightly softened.
  3. Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits.
  4. Add the macaroni. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan until creamy. Let sit 2 minutes to thicken.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess without heavy cream—don't boil it or it may curdle.