“CRAZY good! The entire family cleaned up their plates and returned for more!”
This timeless Hamburger Casserole offers a comforting, hassle-free dinner combining ground beef, tender pasta shells, creamy tomato soup, and gooey melted cheese. It’s an ideal meal for busy families looking for something hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Medium pasta shells | 1 box (1 lb) |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Tomato soup | 2 cans (10 oz each) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and crumbly. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, or any preferred spices.
- Mix ingredients: Stir in the cooked pasta, tomato soup, and ½ cup water to the skillet with the beef. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Add cheese: Incorporate half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the skillet mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring until the cheese starts to melt.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add remaining cheese: Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Bake covered: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- Optional broil: For a golden, crispy cheese topping, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Dish out the casserole while hot. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
