Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, bringing back memories of cozy family dinners filled with laughter and warmth. This Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna is not just a one-pot meal; it’s a hearty embrace on a busy weeknight. In about 30 minutes, you can create this comforting dish, featuring tender mafalda pasta simmered in a rich marinara sauce with savory ground beef, all blanketed in gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The best part? Minimal cleanup means you can spend more time savoring every delicious bite. Ready to turn your weeknight dinners into a delicious celebration? Let’s dive into this quick and satisfying recipe! Why Is This Lasagna Recipe So Special? Ease of Preparation: This Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna is a one-pot meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The savory blend of ground beef and marinara sauce creates a deep, comforting flavor that will warm your heart. Perfect Pasta Texture: The mafalda pasta holds sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is filled with deliciousness. Gooey Cheese Delight: With a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan, each serving delivers a satisfying creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Versatile Options: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or mix in your favorite veggies for a personalized touch to your plate. Add a side of Pasta Salad Discover for extra color and crunch! Minimal Cleanup: Because it’s all cooked in one pot, you’ll have less to clean up, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends. Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Ingredients • A comforting and hearty dish in a single pot! For the Beef Mixture Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in cooking the beef; substitute with vegetable oil if desired. Ground Beef – Main protein source providing flavor; recommended 80/20 for balance, or swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste based on personal preference or dietary needs. Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; use freshly cracked for better flavor. Garlic Powder – Introduces savory depth; can substitute with minced fresh garlic. Onion Powder – Enhances umami; you can use fresh onions but adjust quantities accordingly. Oregano – Adds Italian flavor notes; substitute with Italian seasoning if unavailable. Red Pepper Flakes – Provides a hint of spice; omit for a milder dish or replace with black pepper. For the Pasta and Sauce Marinara Sauce – Acts as a base for moisture and flavor; use store-bought or homemade, adjusting quantity for desired sauciness. Mafalda Pasta – Unique shape that holds sauce well; can be substituted with any short pasta like macaroni or penne. Beef Broth – Adds depth and moisture during cooking; can replace with vegetable broth for a lighter version. For the Cheesy Topping Parmesan Cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor; can replace with Pecorino Romano. Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooey creaminess; low-fat or vegan cheese can be used for a lighter alternative. Garnish Fresh Parsley – Adds color and freshness; omit if unavailable. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Step 1: Cook the Beef In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s well browned and no longer pink. Season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes for that hearty flavor that defines your Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna. Step 2: Combine Sauces Once the beef is browned, pour in 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 cup of beef broth, stirring well. Turn the heat up and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This bubbling symphony will help meld the flavors together, creating a deliciously rich base for your lasagna. Step 3: Add the Pasta Now that the sauce is bubbling, add in 8 ounces of mafalda pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is fully submerged and separated to avoid clumping. This step is crucial, as covering the pot will trap the steam needed for the pasta to cook evenly in your one-pot Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna. Step 4: Simmer Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir every 3-4 minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. As it cooks, the pasta will absorb the sauce, creating a wonderfully creamy texture that’s perfect for your hearty lasagna dish. Step 5: Add Cheese Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until they melt and blend seamlessly. Let the Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna sit, covered, for 2-3 minutes. This brief resting period enhances the creamy, gooey cheese topping. Step 6: Serve Finally, spoon the delicious lasagna into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and watch as your family enjoys this comforting meal, rejoicing in the quick and hearty flavors of your Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna that’s perfect for busy weekdays. Expert Tips for Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Frequent Stirring: To avoid pasta sticking, stir often during the simmering stage—this helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency without clumps. Cheese Addition: Turn off the heat before adding the cheeses to prevent them from becoming grainy or separating. This ensures a smooth, gooey topping that is truly irresistible. Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce gets too thick during cooking, don’t hesitate to add more beef broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency for your Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna. Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after adding the cheese. This simple step will enhance the meltiness and overall texture of your meal. Pasta Choice: While mafalda pasta works wonderfully, feel free to substitute it with other short pasta shapes if that’s what you have on hand—just ensure they’re safe for a one-pot cooking method! Make Ahead Options These Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna components are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights much easier! You can prep the beef mixture and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the beef and combine it with the marinara and beef broth, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The mafalda pasta can be measured and stored separately, as cooking it ahead may result in mushiness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the beef mixture on the stovetop, stirring in the pasta, and simmer until heated through. Finish by adding cheese and letting it sit covered for a few minutes to melt perfectly – just as delicious as when freshly made! Storage Tips for Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making each bite even more delicious! Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them clearly for your future dinners! Reheating: To reheat, warm on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to restore creaminess or microwave in intervals, adding cheese on top for a delightful melt that brings the Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna back to life. Defrosting: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results, ensuring even warming without drying out the dish. Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this comforting dish to suit your tastes! Lean Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter, healthier version that still packs a punch of flavor. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the same hearty taste without the extra fat. Pasta Shape: Substitute mafalda pasta with any short pasta like macaroni or penne for a fun twist! Each shape brings its own texture, giving you an exciting variation in every bowl. Veggie Boost: Incorporate chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the beef mixture for added nutrition and vibrant colors. These vegetables will enhance both flavor and texture, bringing freshness to this classic. Cheesy Spin: Experiment with different cheese blends by adding pepper jack or cheddar for a warm, spicy kick. Each mix creates a new experience that your family will love. Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or thyme to brighten the flavor profile. A sprinkle of these fresh herbs elevates the dish, making it taste even more homemade and loved. Heat Levels: Adjust the heat by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Spice enthusiasts will relish the fiery twist on this classic. Vegan Option: Make it plant-based by swapping out beef for lentils and using vegan cheese. It offers the same creamy satisfaction and heartiness while catering to dietary preferences. For delightful sides, pair this lasagna with a refreshing Pasta Salad Discover or savory garlic bread for the ultimate meal experience! What to Serve with Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Create a memorable meal that warms both heart and home with delightful sides and drinks. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy lasagna, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. It’s an aromatic addition that makes every meal feel like a special occasion. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, tangy vinaigrette, and seasonal vegetables balances the richness of the lasagna while adding a refreshing note to the meal. Consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness! Steamed Broccoli: Brightly colored broccoli drizzled with olive oil or a squeeze of lemon enhances the dish with a nutritious element and a subtle earthy flavor, making it a vibrant side that’s easy to prepare. Italian Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection introduces a layer of earthy sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory flavors of the lasagna. This colorful side offers delightful textures and tastes. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the lasagna, the wine’s crisp acidity cutting through the richness of the cheese while enhancing the overall flavor experience. Brownie Sundae: Indulge in a warm brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce for a comforting dessert. The sweetness of this classic treat provides a perfect ending to your hearty dinner. Herbed Rice: A simple herb-infused rice side dish brings a fluffy texture and mild flavor that absorbs the deliciousness of the lasagna while adding an extra element to the plate without overshadowing it. Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing and fizzy drink, serve sparkling water with a splash of lime. It cleanses the palate beautifully between bites of the rich lasagna, keeping the meal light and enjoyable. Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Recipe FAQs What type of pasta is best for this recipe? For this Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna, I recommend using mafalda pasta due to its unique shape that holds sauce perfectly. However, you can absolutely substitute it with other short pasta shapes like macaroni or penne if that’s what you have on hand. How can I store this lasagna? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This method helps the flavors deepen and meld together, making for an even tastier meal the next day! Can I freeze the lasagna? Yes! You can freeze portions of the Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them, so you know what’s cooking for dinner later! To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it on the stovetop or microwave. What should I do if my pasta is sticky? If you find your pasta is sticking together during cooking, don’t worry! Simply stir every few minutes while it simmers. If it’s too late and sticking has occurred, add a splash of beef broth and stir to help separate the clumps. Are there any dietary adjustments I can make for allergies? Absolutely! For those allergic to gluten, you can substitute mafalda pasta with a gluten-free pasta option. Additionally, use a plant-based ground meat or beans for the protein to adjust for dietary preferences or restrictions. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. What if I want to reduce calories or fat? You can easily lighten this Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna by using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and opting for low-fat or vegan cheese. This way, you still get to enjoy all the comforting richness without compromising on taste! Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna Ready in 30 Minutes This Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna is a quick, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights, featuring savory ground beef and gooey cheese. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 3 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef Mixture1 tablespoon Olive Oil or vegetable oil1 pound Ground Beef recommended 80/201 teaspoon Salt to taste1 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly cracked1 teaspoon Garlic Powder can substitute with minced fresh garlic1 teaspoon Onion Powder or fresh onions, adjust quantities1 teaspoon Oregano or Italian seasoning1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes omit for a milder dishFor the Pasta and Sauce2 cups Marinara Sauce store-bought or homemade8 ounces Mafalda Pasta can substitute with macaroni or penne1 cup Beef Broth or vegetable brothFor the Cheesy Topping1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese or Pecorino Romano1 cup Mozzarella Cheese low-fat or vegan optionGarnish1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Equipment large pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes.Pour in 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 cup of beef broth, stirring well. Bring to a gentle boil for 2-3 minutes.Add in 8 ounces of mafalda pasta, ensuring it's fully submerged. Cover the pot to trap steam.Cover and reduce heat to medium-low, simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes.Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted. Let it sit covered for 2-3 minutes.Spoon into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesTo prevent pasta sticking, stir often during simmering. Turn off heat before adding cheese for a smooth topping. Adjust sauce thickness with more beef broth if necessary. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
