One Pot Hamburger Lasagna

Name: One Pot Hamburger Lasagna
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound extra lean ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ¼ teaspoon pepper, or to taste; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups marinara sauce; 8 ounce mafalda pasta, uncooked; 3 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Author: Lora

Published: September 22, 2025

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Introduction to One Pot Hamburger Lasagna

Gather ’round, friends! If you’re like me, life gets busy, and sometimes cooking can feel like a juggling act. That’s why I’m so excited to share my One Pot Hamburger Lasagna with you. It’s a dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals right to your table without the fuss. Just imagine tender pasta enveloped in rich marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and seasoned beef—all cooked in one pot! Now, doesn’t that sound like the perfect comforting meal to whip up on a hectic weeknight? Your family will love it, and you’ll appreciate the easy cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Hamburger Lasagna

This One Pot Hamburger Lasagna is a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a speedy solution for those chaotic evenings. Plus, the satisfying flavors of savory beef, rich cheese, and zesty marinara create a delightful taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. You’ll savor every comforting bite, all while relishing the ease of one-pot cleanup!

Ingredients for One Pot Hamburger Lasagna

Now, let’s dive into the tasty ingredients you’ll need for this One Pot Hamburger Lasagna. Each component plays a vital role in creating that comforting flavor that warms the soul.

Extra lean ground beef: This is the backbone of our dish, adding protein and richness. I prefer extra lean to keep it healthier, but feel free to use the regular ground beef if that’s what you have.
Small onion: Chopped onion brings a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor to the mix. Yellow or white onions work best.
Garlic: You can’t go wrong with fresh garlic! The minced cloves add an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
Salt and pepper: These everyday seasonings enhance the flavors beautifully, so add them to taste as you cook.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that instantly reminds me of cozy Italian kitchens. It brings that authentic flavor to our lasagna.
Marinara sauce: This zesty sauce is the heart of the dish, infusing everything with its vibrant tomato flavor. Feel free to use store-bought or your homemade version!
Mafalda pasta: This short pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the sauce and beef. If you can’t find mafalda, any short pasta will work as a delicious substitute.
Low sodium chicken broth: This is our cooking liquid, adding moisture and flavor without overwhelming the dish with salt.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The secret to that gooey, melty goodness! If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some Italian blend cheese for extra flavor.
Fresh parsley: This is optional, but a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.

And there you have it! If you’re ready to roll, the exact measurements for these ingredients are at the bottom of the article, available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make One Pot Hamburger Lasagna

Ready to create your One Pot Hamburger Lasagna? Let’s walk through each step together. It’s simpler than you might think, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating your large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Look for a nice golden-brown color. This adds flavor! If any fat collects, carefully drain it off, especially if you’re using a leaner cut. Remember, you want flavor, not greasiness!

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. The aroma that fills your kitchen is simply delightful! Season this mix with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns translucent. You want those flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now, for the fun part! Pour in the marinara sauce, add the uncooked mafalda pasta, and carefully stir in the chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This will help the pasta soak up that delicious sauce and moisture!

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Once the pasta reaches the perfect tenderness and most of the liquid has absorbed, it’s time to add the mozzarella cheese. Stir it in and continue cooking for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. Timing is everything here; you want that cheese to melt into a creamy, luscious layer of goodness that binds everything together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top. This adds a lovely touch of color and freshness! Serve your One Pot Hamburger Lasagna hot, maybe with some crusty bread on the side. Trust me, your family will be devouring it in no time!

Tips for Success

For even faster prep, chop the onion and garlic ahead of time or use pre-chopped versions.
Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking, making cleanup easier.
Feel free to tweak the amount of cheese based on your family’s preference.
Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; this helps meld the flavors.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy reheating the next day!

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: This is where all the magic happens! A deep sauté pan works well too.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the meat.
Measuring cups: Handy for your chicken broth and pasta.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping your onion and garlic.
Spatula: Makes serving easier!

Variations

For a veggie boost, toss in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. They add color and nutrients without altering the taste too much.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein choice.
For a gluten-free twist, use gluten-free pasta and make sure your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.
Spice it up! Add red pepper flakes for some heat or stir in a bit of pesto for an extra layer of flavor.
To make it a one-pot wonder, throw in some canned diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor. Just reduce the chicken broth slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your One Pot Hamburger Lasagna with a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Garlic bread is a must! It’s perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on the plate.
For drinks, a light red wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
Serve in rustic bowls for a cozy presentation that invites everyone to dig in!

FAQs about One Pot Hamburger Lasagna

As you embark on your cooking adventure with this One Pot Hamburger Lasagna, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While I love mafalda for its shape, any small pasta—like penne or rotini—will work just as well. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as different pastas have varying cook times.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the melting cheese step. Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, warm it on the stove and add the cheese until melted. It’s a great option for meal prep!

What can I serve with One Pot Hamburger Lasagna?

This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or garlic bread. The freshness of a green salad balances the hearty flavors beautifully.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, indeed! Just place the cooled lasagna in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up on the stovetop or in the oven.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To turn this into a vegetarian delight, replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors will still be fantastic!

Final Thoughts

Making this One Pot Hamburger Lasagna is like wrapping your family in a warm, cheesy hug! The ease of preparing this delicious meal all in one pot means less stress for you and more time to enjoy laughter around the table. Each bite is a reminder of the love and care that goes into cooking for those we cherish. Plus, the endless variations mean this dish can evolve with your family’s tastes. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! I promise, the joy this recipe brings will leave everyone smiling with satisfaction!