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–+ servings
Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna

Classic Hamburger Helper Lasagna: Quick, Cozy Comfort Food

A comforting, one-pot meal that combines ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses with mafalda pasta, all ready in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 3 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cooking Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can be replaced with vegetable oil
  • 1 pound ground beef choose 80/20 for optimal flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt sea salt or kosher salt are good substitutes
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper white pepper can be used instead
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder substitute with 1-2 minced cloves of fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder fresh sautéed onion can also work
  • 1 teaspoon oregano consider using basil or Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
For the Sauce & Pasta
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce can substitute any favorite pasta sauce
  • 8 ounces mafalda pasta can swap for fusilli or elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup beef broth or use vegetable broth
For Creaminess
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese replace with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese can use Cheddar or dairy-free cheese
For Garnish
  • fresh parsley optional but recommended for added freshness

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • measuring spoons
  • Measuring Cups

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef to the hot oil, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  3. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in marinara sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add mafalda pasta, ensuring it gets submerged in the sauce. Stir for an even distribution.
  6. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes.
  7. When pasta is tender, remove from heat and stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted.
  8. Cover the pot with the lid for 2-3 minutes to meld the cheeses.
  9. Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty meal takes minimal time and effort while providing comforting flavors that the whole family will enjoy.

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