Main Meals
One Pot Healthy Hamburger Helper
By Katie Stewart · January 12, 2024 · 4 min read
by Callie Birtles, R.H.N. & Acne Coach in The Clear Skin Solution
Time for the ultimate comfort food! This recipe transports you back to childhood memories and addresses the need for simplicity in the kitchen. We’ve taken a classic processed favourite and gave it a nourishing makeover, ensuring it will delight your taste buds while nourishing your skin. Our One Pot Healthy Hamburger Helper checks all the boxes:
- Quick
- One Pot
- Tasty and comforting
- Picky eater approved
- Clear skin approved
The Problem With Processed
One major culprit that can wreak havoc on your skin is processed foods. These not only affect your overall health but can also trigger acne outbreaks. Loaded with sneaky artificial additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats, these culinary culprits can contribute to inflammation in the body, often manifesting as acne on the skin. By opting for clean, whole ingredients, we can start to transform our skin health, one meal at a time.
Gluten-Free Goodness
A key area of focus in The Clear Skin Solution involves gut health, as an inflamed gut is often a center-stage root cause. One key adjustment in this recipe is the use of gluten-free pasta options. The One Pot Healthy Hamburger Helper utilizes organic brown rice pasta, a gluten-free alternative that reduces inflammation commonly seen in conventional wheat-based noodles. Chickpea, lentil, or cassava pasta are excellent choices for those looking for a non-rice-based option. By making this simple swap, you’re promoting better gut health and doing your skin a favour.
Stress & Your Skin
In the fast-paced rhythm of today’s world, finding an equilibrium between making health-conscious decisions and meeting the relentless demands of a hectic lifestyle can often feel like an uphill battle. The pressure to perform at work, manage household chores, maintain social connections, and still find time for self-care can be daunting. This is where the true charm of this recipe comes into play.
As we focus on clear skin, we must be mindful of the impact of stress. Stress produces a hormone known as cortisol, which can cause inflammation in the body and lead to breakouts. In The Clear Skin Solution, we guide our clients in discovering effective strategies to reduce stress and incorporate healthy choices into their lives without being overwhelmed. We understand the importance of making these changes seamless and efficient, and this recipe is a prime example of how small adjustments can lead to lasting results.
Benefits of Beef
Organic grass-fed beef offers numerous benefits for skin health. It is not only a delicious choice but also a nutritious one. Let’s explore some key benefits in more detail:
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: These healthy fats are known to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help alleviate skin conditions such as acne.
- Provides a hefty dose of protein: Protein is essential for repairing and regenerating skin cells. By consuming organic grass-fed beef, you can ensure that your body receives an ample supply of this vital nutrient, supporting your skin’s overall health and vitality.
- Contains vitamins such as vitamin E and zinc: These vitamins are crucial in promoting a smoother and healthier complexion. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radicals, while zinc aids in collagen production, contributing to skin elasticity.
Looking for more beef recipes? Check out…
Whether you’re seeking a trip down memory lane, attempting to please the discerning taste buds of your little ones (or big ones), or simply looking for a quick and easy solution amid a hectic schedule, our One Pot Healthy Hamburger Helper has your back.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 lb grass-fed organic ground beef or bison
- 1 red onion (finely diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 ½ tsp each garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano & dried parsley
- ½ tsp chilli powder
- 2 cups beef broth (more if needed)
- 1 can can diced tomatoes with juices (796mL)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ⅔ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 bag bag gluten-free brown rice (454g - macaroni, fusili, or farfalle)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Optional:
- 3-4 tbsp cashew cheese (for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- In a large stockpot, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices. Cook until the beef is about 90% cooked through.
- Stir in the broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, nutritional yeast, pasta, and salt and pepper.
- Increase the heat to high and bring to a light boil. Then, reduce the heat to maintain a vigorous simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring regularly to prevent sticking. Add more beef broth, ½ cup at a time, if more liquid is needed.
- If using cashew cream cheese, stir it in until well combined.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- If making this recipe regularly, save yourself time by making a big batch of the spice blend and storing in a labeled container such as a mason jar.
- For extra nourishment, stir in 1 cup of either grated zucchini, green peas, or diced bell pepper once cooked.