Name: One-Pot Vegan Hamburger Helper
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon neutral oil; 1 package vegan beefy crumbles; 1 red onion, diced; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni; 3 cups veggie broth; 1 1/2 cups vegan cheddar cheese; Salt & pepper, to taste

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This One-Pot Vegan Hamburger Helper is a cozy, comforting, and flavor-packed version of the nostalgic classic — but entirely plant-based. With elbow macaroni, seasoned vegan beef crumbles, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce, it’s a satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or anyone looking for a delicious one-pot vegan meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate combination of convenience and comfort. Everything cooks in one pot — pasta, sauce, and all — meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and high in protein thanks to vegan beef crumbles. Plus, the creamy, cheesy tomato sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even among non-vegans.

One-Pot Vegan Hamburger Helper

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon neutral oil
1 package vegan beefy crumbles
1 red onion, diced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
3 cups vegetable broth
1½ cups vegan cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics and Vegan Meat:
In a large pot over medium heat, add the neutral oil. Sauté the diced red onion for about 1 minute, then add the vegan beefy crumbles. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add Seasoning and Tomato Paste:
Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to blend.

3. Add the Liquid and Pasta:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the elbow macaroni.

4. Simmer:
Reduce heat to a low simmer and cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking.

5. Add the Cheese:
Turn off the heat. Stir in the vegan cheddar cheese until well combined. Cover the pot with a lid and let sit for 5 minutes to melt the cheese fully.

6. Season and Serve:
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: Mix in peas, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make it more nutritious.
Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like extra heat.
Creamier Version: Stir in a splash of unsweetened plant-based milk or vegan cream with the cheese.
Different Pasta Shapes: Use shells, rotini, or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
Southwest Style: Add black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime for a Tex-Mex twist.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta will work — just adjust the cooking time as needed for different shapes or brands.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or crushed red pepper.

What brand of vegan beef crumbles works best?

Any store-bought vegan mince will work. Popular options include Beyond, Gardein, or store-brand crumbles.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your vegan meat and broth are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have tomato paste?

You can use tomato sauce, though the flavor will be slightly less concentrated. Use about ½ cup and reduce the broth slightly.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir every few minutes while simmering and keep the heat low once the pasta is added.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it in advance and reheat before serving. The flavors deepen as it sits.

How do I make it creamier?

Add unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or vegan cream when stirring in the cheese for a silkier texture.

Does it taste like traditional Hamburger Helper?

Yes, the flavors are similar — creamy, cheesy, and savory — but this version is fully plant-based and just as comforting.

Can I use homemade vegan cheese?

Absolutely. Use your favorite vegan cheese sauce or homemade shreds for a more personalized version.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Vegan Hamburger Helper is a plant-based twist on a nostalgic favorite, perfect for quick dinners and satisfying comfort food cravings. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, it’s easy to customize and comes together in a single pot — making it as convenient as it is delicious. Great for weeknight meals, leftovers, and sharing with the whole family

Jessica