Hamburger Helper Lasagna Pasta

This homemade Hamburger Helper Lasagna is the ultimate weeknight fix when you need something hearty fast. You get all the classic flavors of lasagna without the fuss layering noodles and cheese and instead you toss everything into one pot for a dinner that feels cozy and nostalgic.

Honestly this recipe saved me so many times when dinner needed to be on the table fast and everyone was already asking when it would be ready It has become one of those back pocket meals I happily rely on all year

Ingredients

• Ground beef: gives this dish that classic lasagna flavor and plenty of protein Choose a slightly leaner beef for less grease
• Dried minced onion: saves time and brings mellow savory notes without chopping
• Garlic powder: adds depth and a gentle zing Use a good quality powder for best taste
• Salt and black pepper: wake up all the other flavors Freshly cracked pepper is best if you can
• Italian seasoning: is the secret to classic lasagna taste Try to use a blend with oregano thyme and basil
• Marinara sauce: brings rich tomato flavor and the right touch of sweetness Go for your favorite jarred or homemade sauce with simple ingredients
• Mafalda pasta: has that authentic lasagna shape and holds sauce beautifully If you cannot find mafalda any short noodle will work
• Beef broth: boosts meaty flavor and helps cook the pasta right in the pot Use low sodium broth if you want more control over salt
• Milk: makes the sauce creamy and balances out the tomato tang Whole milk works best for richness
• Mozzarella cheese: melts into luscious strings for that unmistakable lasagna pull Always use freshly shredded if you can for the best melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Heat your biggest pot over medium heat Add the ground beef and cook until browned Break it up as you go so you get plenty of juicy little bits Drain off any grease to keep the dish light but still full flavored

Add the Seasonings:

Sprinkle the dried minced onion garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and black pepper over the browned beef Stir everything around making sure every bit of beef gets coated with the seasonings This brings out the lasagna flavors

Build the Sauce and Pasta:

Pour in your marinara sauce add the uncooked mafalda pasta the beef broth and milk Give it a really good stir Scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to get up any tasty bits that might be sticking This helps make the sauce extra delicious

Simmer the Lasagna:

Bring everything up to a good boil then immediately turn the heat to low Let the pot simmer gently for about fifteen minutes Stir it often so the pasta cooks evenly and nothing sticks Most of the liquid should absorb and the noodles will be perfectly tender

Melt in the Cheese:

Once the pasta is just right stir in the shredded mozzarella Let it cook for about thirty seconds The cheese should turn melty and gooey giving you that classic lasagna vibe right in your pot

Serve It Up Hot:

Spoon the hamburger helper lasagna into bowls while it is piping hot You want to catch all that melty cheese and saucy pasta right away

Save

One of my favorite parts is the mozzarella cheese because when you stir it in you get those classic strings that make everyone at the table smile I will never forget my son’s face the first time he saw that gooey cheese stretch from his spoon Pure dinner table joy

Storage tips

This dish keeps well in the fridge covered for up to three days To reheat add a splash of milk or broth stir and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for the best creamy texture If freezing portion into airtight containers and thaw before reheating to avoid the noodles going overly soft

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap in ground turkey or chicken if you want something lighter Italian sausage adds spice and depth For a vegetarian twist use plant based ground crumbles and swap beef broth for veggie broth If you cannot find mafalda noodles broken up lasagna sheets or rotini will do the trick

Serving suggestions

A crisp Caesar salad on the side and maybe a garlic breadstick makes this meal extra satisfying A scatter of fresh basil or parsley on top adds color and fresh flavor Bonus points if you sprinkle a little parmesan cheese before serving

Save

Cultural and historical context

Hamburger Helper was born out of a need for quick family meals in busy households but this homemade version takes it back to basics using real ingredients you recognize It is a smart riff on classic Italian American lasagna giving you that same hug in a bowl feeling without hours in the kitchen

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, you can swap mafalda pasta with other short noodles like rotini, penne, or fusilli for similar results.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Certainly. Prepare the pasta mixture ahead, store in the fridge, and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture while browning for extra heat.

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Ground turkey or even chicken work well as lighter alternatives; just check seasoning to keep the flavor balanced.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Try shredded cheddar, provolone, or a blend for different tastes, though mozzarella keeps a classic lasagna feel.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of broth.