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One Pot Hamburger Helper with Zucchini and Cheese

One Pot Hamburger Helper with Zucchini and Cheese

This One Pot Hamburger Helper with Zucchini and Cheese is a quick and comforting meal combining savory ground beef, tender zucchini, elbow macaroni, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, packing hearty flavors and a veggie boost all cooked in a single pot for minimal cleanup.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook while breaking it apart until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  2. Add Zucchini and Pasta: Stir in the diced zucchini, then add the elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Mix to combine all ingredients evenly.
  3. Pour in Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in beef broth and milk or cream. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure pasta is fully submerged, then bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Simmer Until Pasta is Tender: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking until pasta is cooked through and zucchini is tender.
  5. Stir in Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately for the best cheesy experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm zucchini to retain texture.
  • Simmer gently on low heat to avoid overcooking pasta or sticking.
  • Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for better melt and stronger flavor.
  • Stir often during cooking to prevent clumping and ensure even cooking.
  • Add extra broth if the pasta absorbs too much liquid during simmering.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Contains Gluten and Dairy

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: one pot, hamburger helper, zucchini, cheese, ground beef, easy dinner, quick meal, family friendly, comfort food