Copycat Lasagna Hamburger Helper

This easy one-pan dinner brings all the cheesy, saucy flavor flavors of lasagna without the fuss! You'll have a family friendly meal in 30 minutes.

Course Lunch or Dinner

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings servings

Calories 598kcal

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
24 ounce jar marinara or pasta sauce
2 cups beef broth
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups malfalda pasta (mini lasagna noodle pasta) You can substitute any small pasta like elbow macaroni, rotini, or mini farfalle.
1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil chopped (for garnish)

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease if needed.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Next, add marinara sauce and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Add pasta, stir well, then cover and reduce heat to medium low. Cook 12–15 minutes, stirring often to make sure the noodles don't stick. Cook until the pasta is al dente/tender.
Stir in ricotta cheese until creamy and finish by sprinkling with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover and let sit 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts or place under the broiler to melt and brown the cheese.
Allow to stand, loosely covered for 10 minutes prior to eating. Garnish with parsley or basil and enjoy!