Some nights call for a dinner that doesn't ask much from you, and that's where this skillet steps in and saves the day! Spaghetti Hamburger Helper is inspired by the familiar boxed classic so many of us grew up on. But this version is made with simple pantry ingredients you probably already have on hand.
The noodles simmer right in the sauce, the beef adds hearty flavor, and the whole thing comes together in one pan. It tastes like childhood comfort with a homemade upgrade and it's done before anyone has the chance to wander into the kitchen asking what's taking so long.
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Flavorful one-pan pasta dinner
What makes this skillet stand out is how effortlessly everything works together. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all that flavor instead of getting boiled separately. The broth keeps it saucy, the cheese brings a creamy finish, and the whole dish lands squarely in that sweet spot between hearty and simple.
This is the kind of meal you can pull off on autopilot, and it still tastes like something you planned ahead for! Kids love it, grown-ups love it, and cleanup is practically a non-event.
Copycat Spaghetti Hamburger Helper Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion diced. If someone in the house isn't big on onion texture, you can cook it down a bit longer or even grate the onion so it melts right into the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 ½ teaspoons Montreal steak seasoning
- 24 ounce jar spaghetti sauce your favorite brand
- 3 cups beef broth
- 12 ounces spaghetti, about ¾ of a box.
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese
- Optional garnish - minced parsley and grated parmesan.
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until the beef is browned. Drain off extra grease if necessary.
- Season with Montreal steak seasoning, garlic powder, Italian seasoning. Stir for a few seconds so the spices coat the meat. Add the entire jar of spaghetti sauce and the beef broth. Give it a good stir.
- Break the spaghetti pasta into thirds and stir it into the sauce. Make sure the pasta is submerged.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, and simmer uncovered for 12-14 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes so the pasta doesn't clump.
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in the milk and shredded cheese. Remove from the heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes.
- Optional - Finish with minced parsley and grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
Nutrition
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Ingredients
Please refer to the printable recipe card for the measurements for this recipe.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ's)
Shorter pieces cook more evenly in a skillet and are easier to stir without clumping. Plus, it keeps this dish closer to that classic "helper" texture everyone remembers.
You bet! This is totally flexible; elbows, rotini, or shells work well. Just keep an eye on the cook time and add a splash more broth if needed.
Oh yes. Finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini melt right into the sauce and blend beautifully without changing the flavor kids love.
Deb's top tip
Before adding the beef broth to the skil pour it into the empty pasta sauce jar, pop the lid on, and give it a good shake to loosen up every last bit of sauce. Then pour it all into the skillet - extra flavor, zero waste!
More quick and easy skillet favorites
If this spaghetti skillet hits the spot, you might like a few more weeknight helpers that keep things simple and satisfying. My Lasagna Hamburger Helper brings all the cheesy layers without the baking dish, and the Taco Hamburger Helper has a fun southwest twist that always disappears fast.
And if you're in the mood for something classic and comforting, the Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe is a great all-purpose go-to. These are all quick, budget-friendly, and easy to make with what's already in your pantry!
What to serve with it
This skillet is hearty on its own, but a few simple sides makes it feel like a complete meal. A crisp green salad or steamed veggies add a little freshness, and garlic bread or a warm dinner roll is always a hit for scooping up the extra sauce.
If you're feeding a hungry crowd, a quick fruit salad or roasted broccoli rounds things out without adding much effort.
Before you head to the kitchen
If you've been craving a cozy meal that doesn't leave you juggling a pile of pots, or spending all evening in the kitchen, this skillet checks every box! It's simple, filling, and delicious-exactly the kind of recipe you can count on when life gets busy.
I hope it finds a regular spot in your dinner rotation and brings a little comfort to your table with every twirl of the fork. Let me know how your crew likes it!
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