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One Pot Hamburger Helper with Zucchini and Cheese

One Pot Hamburger Helper with Zucchini and Cheese
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Quick, cheesy, and loaded with fresh zucchini, this One Pot Hamburger Helper with Zucchini and Cheese is an easy, comforting weeknight meal. Featuring hearty ground beef, tender pasta, aromatic onions and garlic, melty cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce all cooked in one pot, it’s perfect for families and busy cooks seeking flavor, convenience, and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb ground beef

Vegetables

  • 1–2 medium zucchinis, chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Dairy

  • 2 cups dry small pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or preferred shape)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk or cream

Liquids and Broths

  • 2 cups beef broth

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of paprika or Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, stirring and breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
  2. Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Zucchini: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the same pot. Cook until fragrant and the onions become translucent. Then stir in the chopped zucchini and cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften but still holds some crunch.
  3. Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the dry pasta, beef broth, and milk. Bring everything to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Stir in Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika or Italian herbs if using, adjusting to taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh zucchini for the best texture; avoid soft or watery zucchini.
  • Cook pasta to al dente to prevent mushiness once cheese is added.
  • Choose sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor.
  • Stir frequently during simmering to keep pasta from sticking or burning.
  • Adjust liquid amounts depending on pasta type to achieve perfect sauce consistency.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/one-pot-hamburger-helper-with-zucchini-and-cheese/