This Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper is a comforting dish that’s easy on the tummy. Made with lean ground beef, whole grain pasta, and lots of veggies, it’s got a boost of goodness!
I love to toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. It’s the ultimate hands-off meal—perfect for busy days when you just want to come home to something warm and tasty!
The best part? You can sneak in any extra veggies your family loves. They’ll never know it’s healthy—shhh, it’ll be our little secret! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey or Lean Ground Beef: Ground turkey is a healthier choice, but lean ground beef works too! If you’re looking for a low-fat alternative, try using ground chicken. You could even use plant-based ground meat if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Onion: Diced onion adds flavor and sweetness. If you’re not an onion fan, consider shallots or leeks. They’re milder in flavor and can work wonders in this dish!
Carrots: Diced or shredded carrots add color and nutrition. If you’re short on time, grab a bag of pre-shredded carrots. You can also substitute with bell peppers or zucchini for a different veggie mix.
Whole Wheat Macaroni: Whole wheat pasta is a great choice for added fiber. If gluten-free is your goal, choose brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Both can provide a delicious alternative!
Cheddar Cheese: I love adding cheddar cheese for creaminess and flavor. If you want a lighter version, try a reduced-fat cheese or leave it out altogether. Nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor without the calories.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking pasta in a slow cooker can be tricky, but it’s easy with the right approach. The key is to add the pasta at the right time, so it doesn’t get mushy. Here’s how:
- Mix all the ingredients except the pasta first, letting the veggies and meat absorb the flavors.
- Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking if on high, or 1 hour if on low. This timing helps it cook perfectly without overcooking.
- Make sure to stir a couple of times to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness about 10 minutes before the cooking time is up; if it’s tender, it’s ready!
With these tips, your pasta will come out just right! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Healthier Slow Cooker Hamburger Helper
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground turkey or lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced (or shredded)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole wheat macaroni or elbow pasta
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this healthier version of Hamburger Helper takes about 15 minutes. Cooking time will vary, but it will take 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in your slow cooker. Just a bit of prep time, and then the slow cooker does the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or lean ground beef, cooking until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any extra fat and transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
2. Add the Veggies:
In the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, frozen peas, and the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain it!). This will create a tasty base for your dish.
3. Mix in the Liquid and Pasta:
Pour the low-sodium beef or vegetable broth over the mixture, then stir in the whole wheat macaroni, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well so all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and all the flavors have come together beautifully.
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you want to add some cheesy goodness, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. Mix it until it melts and blends into the dish—delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your healthier hamburger helper while it’s hot. Feel free to garnish each serving with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your wholesome meal!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Pork Instead of Turkey or Beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or lean pork are great substitutes for turkey or beef. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may differ slightly. Ensure that the meat is fully cooked before adding other ingredients to the slow cooker.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Hamburger Helper gluten-free, simply replace the whole wheat macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that the broth you use is labeled gluten-free too. The cooking process remains the same, so enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add more vegetables based on your preferences! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are excellent options. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly in the slow cooker. You can add them at the same time as the other vegetables.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of broth or water to refresh it while reheating. Enjoy your meal throughout the week!
