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One-Pot Ground Turkey Hamburger Helper

A hearty and healthy twist on a classic comfort food, this One-Pot Ground Turkey Hamburger Helper combines ground turkey, pasta, and a creamy sauce all cooked in one pan for an easy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground turkey look for lean or extra-lean for an even healthier option
  • 4.5 cups chicken broth homemade for the best flavor, or low-sodium store-bought
  • 2 cups milk whole or low-fat, let it come to room temperature for best results
  • 1 cup marinara sauce use your favorite brand or make your own if you have time
  • 14 oz pasta elbow macaroni works well, but feel free to experiment with other shapes
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese freshly shredded for the best melt
  • 1 tbsp oil olive oil or avocado oil for added health
  • 1 tsp garlic powder for flavor
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder to enhance the taste
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Ensure your ground turkey is thawed if previously frozen. Bring your milk to room temperature for a creamy texture.
Cooking
  1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it's no longer pink and lightly browned.
  3. Sprinkle the garlic and onion powders over the turkey while it cooks to bloom the spices.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and marinara sauce. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add the pasta directly to the pot and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Increase the heat and let the mixture come to a gentle boil for about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
  8. After the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and add the freshly shredded cheese, stirring until it melts completely.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can freeze for about 2 months; thaw completely before reheating.