“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

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
2. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
3. 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.
4. Mix ingredients: Stir in the cooked pasta, tomato soup, and ½ cup water to the skillet with the beef. Mix everything thoroughly.
5. 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.
6. Assemble casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Add remaining cheese: Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top.
8. Bake covered: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
10. Optional broil: For a golden, crispy cheese topping, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
11. Serve: Dish out the casserole while hot. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.