Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper

why make this recipe

Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper is a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food without all the extra calories and preservatives. This dish is easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights. Using lean ground beef and fresh vegetables makes it a healthier choice for your family. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax or tackle other tasks.

how to make Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper

Ingredients :

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• ½ medium onion (diced)
• 1½ cups low sodium beef broth (plus additional if needed)
• 1½ cups milk (any kind)
• 1½ cups tomato pasta sauce
• 1 bell pepper (diced, I used red)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, if you like it spicy!)
• 3 cups dry uncooked macaroni (350-380 grams)
• ½ cup shredded cheese

Directions :

1. In a medium skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to a 4-6 quart slow cooker.
3. Add in the beef broth, milk, tomato pasta sauce, bell pepper, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The cook time is flexible; just ensure the red pepper gets hot enough to cook the pasta.
5. About 15 minutes before serving, switch the slow cooker to high and stir in the macaroni. Check at 15 minutes, and add an extra 5-10 minutes if needed until the pasta is al dente. If the pasta is not cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, add ½-1 cup additional broth or milk.
6. Stir in the cheese, and cover for 2-3 minutes to allow it to melt. Taste and serve.

how to serve Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper

Serve this dish warm, making sure to scoop out some of that creamy sauce and cheesy goodness with each serving. It pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. This meal is sure to satisfy every family member!

how to store Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if it looks dry.

tips to make Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper

• For an even lighter dish, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
• Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach to boost the nutritional value.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste.
• If you want a creamier texture, try adding a bit of cream cheese along with the shredded cheese.

variation

You can easily turn this dish into a vegetarian option by using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth. It still tastes delicious and maintains the hearty feel of the original recipe.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat macaroni instead of regular?
   Yes, whole wheat macaroni works well and adds extra fiber.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
   A simple green salad or some steamed broccoli pairs well with this meal and balances it out nicely.

Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper

Enjoy a classic comfort food with this healthier version of Hamburger Helper made in a slow cooker, featuring lean ground beef and fresh vegetables.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• ½ medium onion, diced
• 1½ cups low sodium beef broth plus additional if needed
• 1½ cups milk any kind
• 1½ cups tomato pasta sauce
• 1 bell pepper diced, I used red
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or more, if you like it spicy!
• 3 cups dry uncooked macaroni (350-380 grams)
• ½ cup shredded cheese

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a medium skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to a 4-6 quart slow cooker.
3. Add in the beef broth, milk, tomato pasta sauce, bell pepper, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.

Cooking

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. About 15 minutes before serving, switch the slow cooker to high and stir in the macaroni.
3. Check at 15 minutes, and add an extra 5-10 minutes if needed until the pasta is al dente.
4. If the pasta is not cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, add ½-1 cup additional broth or milk.
5. Stir in the cheese, and cover for 2-3 minutes to allow it to melt.

Serving

1. Serve this dish warm, making sure to scoop out some of that creamy sauce and cheesy goodness with each serving.

Notes

For an even lighter dish, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach to boost the nutritional value. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste. If you want a creamier texture, try adding a bit of cream cheese along with the shredded cheese.