Swapping out the boxed stuff and making this childhood special...but homemade and healthier!
Prep time: PT10M
Cook time: PT20M
Total time: PT30M
Rating
4.56 stars (2574 reviews)
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
kosher salt and black pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 pound short cut pasta
1 zucchini, grated ((about 1 cup grated))
2 cups low sodium beef broth
1 1/2 cups milk ((use what you drink))
1 1/2-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon ketchup
fresh parsley, for serving
Steps
1. In a large pot set over medium hight heat, add the olive oil, onion and beef. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until brown all over, breaking up the meat as you go, about 10 minutes. Stir in the chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder, cook another minute.2. Add the pasta and zucchini and toss to coat, then pour in the broth and milk. Add the ketchup and stir to combine. Season with salt. 3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium high heat. Simmer 5-8 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring often. 4. Stir in the cheese and cook another few minutes until very creamy. 5. Divide the pasta among bowls and top with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Nutitrion
Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 675 kcal
Reviews
Kelly on 2026-09-27 (5 stars): Loved this! I doubled the recipe to freeze a pan for when I have my baby at the end of November!
Shalako J Holmied on 2026-09-24 (5 stars): I made this recipe last year and let me tell you I made a massive batch of it and there was no leftovers by the end of the night my family enjoyed this dish so much that they asked me to try to make it again
Olivia Bryson on 2026-09-19 (5 stars): I made this recipe tonight and a couple other times for my family. My husband and daughters love it. It’s quick to make and an easy clean up with one pot.
So yummy for a chilly fall evening. I followed the recipe exactly as listed, turned out perfect.
Thanks for giving quick, easy, and delish dinner ideas!
Stella on 2026-09-15 (1 stars): I can't put my finger on what is wrong with this dish, so I will just say everything. My husband and I had to throw it in the trash. Followed it exactly, except doubled the seasonings and added some more broth and milk as there was not enough liquid to cook the noodles. Terrible. Do not waste your money or time.
Alia on 2026-08-31 (5 stars): I have been making this recipe for 3 years at least once a month and it is a huge hit with my 3 teenage boys. It’s easy and love that it’s one pot! Also very flavourful :)
Amy on 2026-08-26 (5 stars): This was easy and delicious! My husband and teens loved it. I added double spices, used beef bone broth, and zested the zucchini to hide it.
I grew up eating the boxed HH and this one tastes like it but so much better! Major nostalgia vibes. Great recipe!
Lisa J on 2026-08-24 (5 stars): Great flavor!
Didn’t have zucchini so omitted and then ended up having to use 4c beef broth to make sure noodles got soft. Next time I’ll double the meat and use bone broth for more protein. Great recipe.
Christina on 2026-08-20 (5 stars): Making this recipe on repeat as my zucchini plant is over producing!! Doubled the beef, doubled the zucchini, and added a bit more liquid as needed. So very good and 3 kids approve and request! You nailed this one.
