Dairy-Free Hamburger Helper

Looking for a quick, creamy, and comforting meal that’s both dairy-free and healthier than the boxed version? This homemade dairy-free Hamburger Helper is a game-changer! Made with seasoned ground beef and a rich, creamy sauce, this one-pot meal comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s kid-friendly and incorporates a sneaky vegetable making it a great option for the whole family.

Unlike store-bought Hamburger Helper, which is often loaded with preservatives, artificial flavors, and dairy, this healthy one-pot pasta dish is made with clean, simple ingredients that keep things light yet flavorful. The creamy, dairy-free cheese sauce gets its rich texture from nutritional yeast and oat milk, giving you all the cheesy goodness without any dairy.

This easy dairy-free Hamburger Helper recipe is not only meal prep-friendly, but it’s also customizable—swap the ground beef for turkey, add extra veggies, or use your favorite pasta alternative. Whether you're following a specific diet, or just want a healthier version of classic Hamburger Helper, this recipe is a must-try!

Dairy-Free Hamburger Helper

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 small zucchinis, diced or grated

• 3 cups uncooked pasta of choice

• 2 cups unsweetened oat milk

• 1 cup beef broth or vegetable broth

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles.

3. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

4. Stir in the diced or grated zucchini and cook for 2–3 minutes, until it begins to soften.

5. Add the oat milk, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, nutritional yeast, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

6. Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it's fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Cook until the pasta is tender.

8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

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