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Cheesy Hamburger Pasta Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 65 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Assemble Casserole: Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Evenly top with the remaining cheese.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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