Low Sodium Homemade Hamburger Helper

Satisfy your craving for comfort food with this wholesome, flavorful Low Sodium Homemade Hamburger Helper, a healthier twist on the classic boxed meal. Made with lean ground beef, hearty whole wheat macaroni, and a medley of aromatic spices like paprika, oregano, and basil, this one-pan wonder is free from excess salt and full of homemade goodness. A light tomato-based sauce, crafted from unsalted tomato products and low sodium beef broth, coats every bite, while a final sprinkle of melted cheddar cheese adds a creamy finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights while keeping sodium in check. Serve it warm and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that elevates this family-friendly dinner favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup unseasoned unsalted tomato sauce
• 2 cups whole wheat macaroni
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 cup medium cheddar cheese, shredded
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 3

Reduce heat to low. Stir in low sodium beef broth, water, tomato paste, and unsalted tomato sauce. Mix until well combined.

Step 4

Add the whole wheat macaroni to the skillet, making sure it's evenly distributed.

Step 5

Stir in the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.

Step 6

Increase heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated, about 2 minutes.

Step 8

Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to thicken.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1774.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2287.1

Total Fat 78.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 39.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 401.1mg	0%
Sodium 1375.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 239.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 32.3g	0%
Total Sugars 19.5g
Protein 166.4g	0%

Vitamin D 24IU	0%
Calcium 1161.5mg	0%
Iron 30.6mg	0%
Potassium 2566.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.3%

Protein: 28.6%

Carbs: 41.1%