4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole

This 4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole is a go-to solution for busy weeknights. It combines hearty ground beef, pasta, and a creamy tomato base, all finished with a cheesy, melty topping. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry family with minimal fuss.
4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Medium shell pasta | 1 lb |
Ground beef | 1 lb |
Tomato soup | 2 cans (10 oz each) |
Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 1/2 cups |
Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1 1/2 cups |
Kosher salt & black pepper (or seasoned salt) | To taste |
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the shell pasta in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef:
While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, or your favorite spice blend. Once cooked through, drain any extra fat.
Mix Everything Together:
In the greased baking dish, combine the cooked ground beef, both cans of tomato soup, the drained pasta, and 1/2 cup of water. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. Mix in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Bake Covered:
Sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top, then cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
Uncover & Finish Baking:
Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until hot and bubbling with melted cheese. If you’d like a crispier, golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes, keeping a close watch to avoid burning.