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One Pan Lightened Up Hamburger Helper

A healthier homemade version of classic Hamburger Helper made in one pan with lean ground turkey, extra vegetables, and whole wheat pasta for an easy weeknight meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey 93% lean
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 2 medium carrots peeled and diced small
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes with juices
  • 4 cups low-sodium broth beef or chicken
  • 8 ounces whole wheat elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups fresh spinach optional
  • 1 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook ground turkey until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and all spices including Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and pasta. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in spinach until wilted if using.
  7. Remove from heat and mix in cheese and Greek yogurt until creamy.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Store in refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheat with added broth. Freezes well for 2 months.