I used to love Hamburger Helper when I was younger. I think part of the reason was I loved the little hand guy that’s on the box. 🙂
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As I got older and my taste buds changed I wasn’t too crazy about Hamburger Helper. Especially when I realized I could make my own in almost the same amount of time.
Not only is this an easy meal but it’s all cooked in one pan. That means cleanup is a breeze!

I used ground beef for this recipe but you could use ground turkey if you want to make it lower in points. Also, if you’re on purple you could use wheat noodles to lower the points.
This Homemade Hamburger Helper comes out to 8 points per serving for blue, green and purple. There are 6 servings in the recipe (approximately 1 1/4 cups per serving).
Click here to view your WW Personal Points and track it on your app.
One thing I recommend using is a food scale. I used 8 ounces of macaroni noodles and the food scale is the best way to know you’re using the correct amount.

This food scale is perfect for weighing out food, you don’t need anything fancy.
To make this Homemade Hamburger Helper you start by browning the ground beef with the chopped onion. Drain any grease from the beef.
Add the seasonings and tomato paste to the ground beef and stir together. Slowly stir in the beef broth, water and milk. Then add the macaroni noodles.
Put a lid on the pan and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 12 minutes then stir in the cheese. That’s it! Dinner is ready in about 30 minutes.
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Yield: 6 servings (Each serving is approximately 1 1/4 cups. 8 points per serving for blue, green and purple)
Click here to view your WW Personal Points and track it on your app.
- 1/2 lb. 95% lean ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup skim milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 cup reduced-fat Mexican cheese, shredded
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Break up and brown ground beef with the chopped onion. Drain any grease from the ground beef.
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Add the tomato paste, garlic powder, parsley, paprika, onion powder, salt and pepper. Stir together with the ground beef.
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Stir in the beef broth, milk and water. Add the macaroni noodles and make sure they are covered by the liquid.
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Put a lid on the pan and bring to a simmer. Cook for 12 minutes stirring occasionally.
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Turn off heat and remove the lid. Add the cheese and stir until it is completely melted.
If you’re looking for some zero point recipes, check out my post 20 Zero Point Recipes or my post 20 (More) Zero Point Recipes. Both are filled with delicious recipes that won’t cost you a single point! They’re perfect for days when you’re running low on points, or trying to save up points for a night out.
If you’re looking for dessert recipes you can visit 50 Weight Watchers Freestyle Desserts. It’s filled with delicious desserts perfect for Weight Watchers!

Yum! I can’t wit to make this!!
How many points for purple would this be if I made it with wheat pasta?
Very good! The whole family loved it.