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–+ servings

Hidden Veggie Hamburger Helper

This one pot hidden veggie hamburger helper is a quick, comforting dinner made from scratch with ground beef, pasta, melty cheese, and a secret boost of zucchini. It is perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cheesy hamburger helper, ground beef pasta recipe, hamburger helper pasta, hidden vegetable pasta, homemade hamburger helper, one pot pasta, one pot pasta recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small sweet onion diced small
  • 1 medium zucchini grated
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2¾ cups chicken broth bone broth works too
  • 1 lb elbow pasta uncooked
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

  • In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil, diced onion, and ground beef. Cook, breaking the beef into small pieces.
  • Halfway through cooking, add garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  • Add Dijon mustard and tomato paste. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes.
  • Stir in grated zucchini.
  • Add chicken broth, stir, and bring to a boil.
  • Add uncooked pasta, return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook 12–14 minutes (or until pasta is tender), stirring occasionally.
  • Uncover, remove from heat, and stir in cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
  • Serve warm and enjoy.