Cheesy Pizza Hamburger Helper Recipe

Are you looking for a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal that will have your family asking for seconds? Look no further than this delicious Pizza Hamburger Helper recipe. Combining the convenience of a one-pan dish with the comforting flavors of pizza, this dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

When my own kids were tired of the same old hamburger helper, I decided to get creative and add a pizza twist with pepperoni and marinara sauce. The result? A dish that not only excited their taste buds but also had them eagerly finishing their plates. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, it’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without the hassle.

One secret tip that takes this Pizza Hamburger Helper to the next level is browning the pepperoni before adding it to the mix. This simple step enhances the overall flavor, making the dish taste even more like a classic pizza. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite pizza toppings or swap out the ground beef for Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Whether you serve it with garlic bread or enjoy it on its own, this recipe is a surefire way to please the whole family.

Quick Benefits

• Family-Friendly: Excites picky eaters, even kids who are usually hard to please
• Easy Cleanup: One-pan recipe minimizes post-cooking mess
• Versatile: Customize with different pizza toppings or protein choices to suit preferences
• Great for Leftovers: Pasta absorbs more flavor over time, making reheated meals just as delicious

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Pizza Hamburger Helper Recipe Recipe

• Convenient One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Friendly Twist: Kids love the pizza flavors, making it a hit with even picky eaters.
• Delicious Aroma: Aromatic ingredients like pepperoni, garlic, and marinara sauce create a tempting smell that draws people in.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different pizza toppings or protein choices like Italian sausage for variety.
• Make-Ahead Option: Leftovers store well and taste great when reheated, perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
• Sneaky Vegetable Option: Add spinach or other veggies without kids noticing, making it a wholesome meal.

Ingredients for Cheesy Pizza Hamburger Helper Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• ¼ cup pepperoni, chopped
• 2½ cups penne pasta

Seasonings and Garnish

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Dried parsley for garnish
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika

How to Make Cheesy Pizza Hamburger Helper Recipe

Step 1: Brown Beef and Onion

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned, breaking up the meat. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

Step 2: Add Pepperoni

Dice the pepperoni. Add to the center of the skillet once the beef is mostly browned. Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy and oils are released.

Step 3: Drain and Add Garlic

After draining excess grease, add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to avoid burning.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

Combine beef broth, marinara sauce, milk, and penne pasta in a pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully immersed in the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Done

Simmer the mixture, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, until the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish

Add 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top and melt either on the stovetop over low heat or under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with dried parsley and serve hot.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the delicious Pizza Hamburger Helper, proper storage is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. When reheating, a microwave is convenient for quick meals, ensuring the dish is heated thoroughly.

The pasta in the Pizza Hamburger Helper may absorb more sauce as it sits in the fridge, giving it a slightly drier appearance. To combat this, you can add a splash of beef broth or marinara sauce while reheating to refresh the dish. Additionally, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and flavor. This versatile dish can easily accommodate additional pizza toppings or variations such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives to suit your preferences, making it a great option for creative leftovers.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some ingredient substitutions for this Pizza Hamburger Helper recipe, there are a few options you can consider. To make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture. For a healthier twist, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

If you’re not a fan of pepperoni, you can swap it out for cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a different flavor profile. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle if you don’t have penne on hand. Feel free to use different types of cheese such as cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.

Lastly, if you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat. Don’t be afraid to customize this recipe to suit your tastes and pantry staples, as it’s a versatile dish that can accommodate various ingredient substitutions and additions.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and creative serving suggestion, try serving your Pizza Hamburger Helper in individual baked pasta shells. Fill large pasta shells with the cheesy pizza hamburger mixture, top with extra mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This twist adds a playful and visually appealing touch to the dish, making it perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.

Another idea is to transform the Pizza Hamburger Helper into a pizza pasta bake. Simply transfer the cooked mixture into a baking dish, top with a layer of pepperoni slices, additional cheese, and breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and serve it up with a side salad or garlic bread for a comforting and satisfying meal that will surely impress your guests.

FAQs for Cheesy Pizza Hamburger Helper Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely substitute the penne pasta with other types like rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti, based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this pizza hamburger helper ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a little extra liquid if it seems dry after being refrigerated.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this dish for future meals. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version of this pizza hamburger helper by omitting the ground beef and using plant-based alternatives or simply adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed making and tasting this delicious Pizza Hamburger Helper as much as my family and friends have. It’s always a pleasure to see a simple dish bring so much joy and satisfaction to the table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to transform everyday ingredients into a flavorful and comforting meal that resonates with everyone, young and old alike.

Remember, cooking is an art, and every dish you create is a masterpiece in its own right. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of the Pizza Hamburger Helper recipe to suit your preferences and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or add your personal touch with unique toppings, the essence of this dish remains the same – a delightful fusion of pizza and comfort food that warms the heart and brings smiles to the dinner table. Bon appétit!

Cheesy Pizza Hamburger Helper Recipe

“Cheesy pizza hamburger helper with pepperoni and marinara sauce, a quick, one-pan dinner loved by both kids and picky eaters.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (6 generous servings)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• ¼ cup pepperoni, chopped
• 2½ cups penne pasta

Seasonings and Garnish

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Dried parsley for garnish
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Brown Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned, breaking up the meat. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add Pepperoni: Dice the pepperoni. Add to the center of the skillet once the beef is mostly browned. Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy and oils are released.
3. Drain and Add Garlic: After draining excess grease, add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to avoid burning.
4. Add Liquids and Pasta: Combine beef broth, marinara sauce, milk, and penne pasta in a pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully immersed in the liquid.
5. Simmer Until Pasta is Done: Simmer the mixture, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, until the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
6. Add Cheese and Finish: Add 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top and melt either on the stovetop over low heat or under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with dried parsley and serve hot.