Description
A quick and easy 4-ingredient hamburger casserole combining tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, creamy tomato soup, and a gooey cheese blend. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that comes together effortlessly with simple pantry staples.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 (1 lb) box medium pasta shells
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 (10 oz) cans tomato soup
- 1/2 cup water
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook and drain the pasta according to the package directions to ensure it is al dente and ready to absorb flavors in the casserole.
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375° F (190° C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown and chop the ground beef, seasoning it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste for enhanced flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, tomato soup, water, and half of the shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella) into the skillet with the browned beef. Stir the mixture well and cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat to blend flavors and warm through.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Evenly top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat thoroughly.
- Bake Uncovered and Broil: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese on top. Optionally, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese crust. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve and Store: Serve the casserole immediately for best texture and flavor. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- You can substitute the mozzarella with all cheddar cheese if preferred, although mozzarella adds extra gooey texture.
- Feel free to add diced onion or onion powder to the beef mixture for additional flavor, though it can be omitted if preferred, especially for kids.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of the casserole)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg