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 (2564 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
Laura on 2026-06-13 (5 stars): Made a half batch. Just me and my husband to feed . This is excellent and our grandkids would love it too. Thanks so much
Brittany on 2026-05-21 (5 stars): I don’t often do reviews but it’s a must for this one! I’ve been making this for over a year now and it’s my most shared meal with my mom friends. It’s so easy and so good! Even my picky kids love it. 10/10 recommend every time.
Al on 2026-05-20 (4 stars): I agree, it was more runny and the milk got a little weird when mixed in. But overall still good.
Rachel on 2026-05-07 (4 stars): This was very good, but did not turn out as creamy as I had hoped! It may have been my own error though.
Lexi on 2026-04-09 (5 stars): This recipe is such a great staple meal. It’s easy to make, filling, and really comforting. The zucchini is what makes the dish. I only had Hamburger Helper a few times as a kid, and this is SO much better.
Denise on 2026-04-08 (1 stars): I did not like the flavor at all. What a waste of ingredients
