Homemade Healthy Hamburger Helper Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What can I use in Hamburger Helper instead of meat? ›

Instead of hamburger meat, we used a plant-based ground meat. If you're looking for plant-based protein alternatives, Lightlife ground meat is a great option! Made with pea protein, it takes less than 5 minutes to cook and you can store it in the freezer until ready to use.

Here are some recommended swaps and add-ins you can try: Add a boost of veggies: feel free to throw in shredded zucchini, sauteed chopped red bell pepper, or mushrooms or a few cups of chopped spinach! My kids usually never know that it's in there. Spice it up: if you'd like you can add some red pepper flakes on top.

You can try using vegetable or chicken broth, which will add flavor and liquid to the recipe. Additionally, you could mix a small amount of sour cream or plain yogurt with water to achieve a creamy consistency without milk.

Moreover, you can also combine two kinds of cheese and use them in this dish for extra richness and cheesiness. Spices and herbs: spices and herbs are the best way to improve the flavors of any dish. Add cumin, cayenne, paprika, or Italian herbs to the hamburger helper to make it taste better.

Carrots + Onion + Garlic.

While some recipes call for onion powder and garlic powder, I found that a combination of fresh onion and garlic with carrots helps pack in added nutritional value and creates a deep base of flavor.

Add in 2 1/2 cups milk and 1 1/2 cups hot tap water, or warm chicken or beef broth.. 3. Mix together the spices (chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, and kosher salt) and cornstarch. Cornstarch will help thicken the sauce for a creamier and more silky cheese sauce.

Milk adds a creamy texure and lends its flavor to the sauce in Hamburger Helper. You may not enjoy the results made with only water. Betty's Emrgency Substitutions page suggests a substitution for a cup of milk: 1/2 cup evaporated milk plus 1/2 cup water; or nonfat dry milk prepared as directed on package.

What can I put in Hamburger Helper instead of milk? ›

Depending on the type of Hamburger Helper, you can use any other liquid, such as almond milk, coconut milk, chicken stock or beef stock.

There are a few ways to mix up the flavors of this easy Hamburger Helper recipe. Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork. If desired, use cubes of chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Replace tomato sauce with salsa for a spicier flavor.

The best side dishes to serve with Hamburger Helper are mac and cheese, tater tots, blooming onion, zucchini noodles, baked ziti, bacon-wrapped asparagus, garlic bread, green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, cheddar biscuits, corn on the cob, wedge salad, and hush puppies.

Make sure to use the unsweetened and unflavored version [2]. Butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for milk to make the sauce rich and creamy. It adds a delicious flavor to the dish [2].