Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Hamburger Helper
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
6 Servings
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Calories
422 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Hamburger Helper
Description
This version of Hamburger Helper uses lean ground beef cooked with sautéed onions and garlic, flavored with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. The sauce base is a mixture of coconut milk and tomato sauce, which provides creaminess and tang. Gluten-free elbow noodles are prepared separately and combined with the thickened sauce, which can be enhanced with gluten-free all-purpose flour to achieve the desired texture.
The dish balances the richness of coconut milk with the acidity of tomato sauce, creating a comforting and filling meal suitable for those avoiding gluten and dairy. The combination of spices supports a mildly seasoned profile that complements the noodles and beef without overpowering.
It is best served warm as a main dish. Adding grated cheese is optional for those without dairy restrictions, which can enrich the flavor further. This recipe saves time by cooking components separately then mixing, ensuring noodles do not overcook.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and stored up to five days in an airtight container. The recipe is versatile and allows for ingredient substitutions according to taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 medium-sized yellow onion chopped, or red onion
- 1 lb ground beef I use 90/10, lean
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano dried
- 1 tsp salt to taste, sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper to taste
- 1 (15-oz.) can coconut milk full-fat, canned
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 to 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour optional, gluten-free
- 8 ounces gluten-free elbow noodles
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once the noodles are fully cooked (but still al dente), drain them in a colander, rinse them with cold water, and set them aside until ready to use.
- Heat the avocado oil in a large thick-bottomed pot (I use my Dutch oven) over medium-high heat. A very large skillet will work too. Add the onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 4 to 6 minutes.
- Transfer the ground beef to the pot, brown beef, and use a spatula to break it into smaller chunks. Stir in the garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the canned coconut milk and the tomato sauce into the pot and bring everything to a full boil. Stir in the gluten-free all-purpose flour and continue cooking the sauce for 8 to 10 minutes to allow it to thicken and become nice and flavorful.
- Stir in the cooked pasta noodles until everything is well-incorporated. If you’d like, you can stir in grated cheese.
- Serve the hamburger helper garnished with fresh parsley in bowls and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Cheese can be added if not avoiding dairy; mozzarella or parmesan work well.
- Cook noodles just to al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when combined with sauce.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 422 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1Serving (of 6) | |
| Calories | 422kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 38g | 13% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.