Description
Comfort meets convenience in this Hamburger Helper Lasagna, blending classic Italian-American flavors with quick weeknight ease. Cheesy layers and hearty beef promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables:
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Liquids and Sauces:
- 1 can (15 ounces / 443 milliliters) tomato sauce
- 1 cup (237 milliliters) beef broth
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Pasta and Oils:
- 2 cups (227 grams) small lasagna or rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Warm a spacious skillet with olive oil, then introduce ground beef and sear until it transforms into a rich, caramel-colored protein, removing any accumulated grease.
- Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and release their aromatic essence.
- Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, creating a robust and flavorful liquid base.
- Gently fold uncooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the savory sauce, then reduce heat and cover, allowing the pasta to simmer and absorb the liquid for 10-12 minutes until perfectly tender.
- Gradually introduce cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it melts completely and integrates seamlessly with the meat and pasta mixture, creating a creamy and cohesive texture.
- Crown the dish with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, covering the skillet to allow the cheese to melt into a bubbling, golden blanket.
- Remove from heat and let the lasagna rest momentarily before serving, allowing the flavors to settle and intensify.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Customize the cheese blend by mixing different types like parmesan or provolone for added depth of flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during the cooking process to boost nutritional value and create a more balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg