One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna: A Comforting, Easy Dinner

When life gets busy, you need recipes that are comforting, quick, and made with minimal effort. One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna ticks all those boxes while delivering hearty, cheesy, and flavorful goodness in every bite. This recipe combines the flavors of traditional lasagna with the convenience of a one-pot dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual family meals.

Let’s explore how to prepare this crowd-pleasing meal step-by-step, with tips and tricks to make it even better!

Why You’ll Love One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna

Imagine all the flavors of classic lasagna—rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and perfectly seasoned ground beef—without the hassle of layering and baking. One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna gives you that and more:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal Cleanup: Only one pot to wash.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal twist.

Ingredients for One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this simple yet satisfying dish.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Ground beef (extra lean)	1 pound
Onion (small, chopped)	1
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Salt	¼ teaspoon (or to taste)
Pepper	¼ teaspoon (or to taste)
Italian seasoning	1 tablespoon
Marinara sauce	2 cups
Mafalda pasta (uncooked)	8 ounces
Chicken broth (low sodium)	3 cups
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)	2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Cook the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. If you’re using extra lean beef, you won’t need to drain any fat. For other types of beef, drain excess fat before proceeding.

2. Add Onion, Garlic, and Seasonings

Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Continue to cook for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Incorporate Liquids and Pasta

Add the marinara sauce, uncooked mafalda pasta, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. By the end of this time, the pasta should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed.

5. Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts and blends with the sauce. This step takes just 30 seconds to a minute.

6. Garnish and Serve

Finish your dish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve the lasagna hot, straight from the pot, with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna

• Use the Right Pasta: Mafalda pasta is ideal because its ruffled edges mimic lasagna noodles. If unavailable, substitute with penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta.
• Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stirring the pasta occasionally prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
• Customize the Seasoning: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or toss in dried basil for extra depth.
• Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by mixing in spinach, diced zucchini, or mushrooms.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving Approx.)
Calories	~400
Protein	~25g
Carbohydrates	~35g
Fat	~15g
Fiber	~3g

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based meat or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Add ricotta or parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the mafalda pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce.
• Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or simple green salad complements the hearty pasta.
• Beverages: Pair with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

FAQs About One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowties. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooking can make the pasta too soft.

6. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Prepare the dish up to the cheese-melting step, then store it. Reheat and add the cheese just before serving.

Conclusion: Make One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna Tonight!

When you’re looking for a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor, One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna is the ultimate solution. It combines the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna with the ease of a one-pot recipe.

Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients and start cooking—you’ll love how quickly this dish comes together and how much your family will enjoy every bite. Don’t forget to make extra; this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Print