Easy Hamburger Casserole: Your New Go-To Weeknight Dinner
In the realm of comfort food, the humble casserole reigns supreme, particularly when it involves the universal appeal of ground beef. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, casseroles like this Easy Hamburger Casserole bring all the coziness of home-cooked meals with minimal fuss.
This recipe combines hearty pasta, rich tomato soup, and a double-cheese topping to create a dish that’s both satisfying and deliciously simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever the kitchen is the last place you want to be.
What makes this casserole a standout is its no-nonsense approach to ingredients and preparation. With only four main components and a straightforward method, it’s designed to provide a nutritious, filling meal without any complicated steps or obscure ingredients. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up with confidence, knowing it will be met with smiles around the dinner table.
Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a comforting meal to last a couple of days, this hamburger casserole promises to deliver both nutrition and taste without breaking a sweat.
Preparation Time
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings
- Yields: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (1 lb) box medium pasta shells
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 (9 oz) cans tomato soup
- 3 cups crushed cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup water
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, seasoning it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: To the skillet with the browned beef, add the cooked pasta, half the water, tomato soup, and half of both cheeses. Stir everything together and cook for about 4 minutes until everything is nicely combined and heated through.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread evenly and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 21 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This hearty dish is perfect on its own or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.