Hamburger Casserole Recipe

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preparation:

1. Preparing the Ingredients (5 minutes)

Before starting, gather all the ingredients to streamline the process. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick, making cleanup easier.

2. Cooking the Pasta (10 minutes)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, and set aside.

3. Cooking the Ground Beef (10 minutes)

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assembling the Casserole (5 minutes)

In the skillet with the cooked beef, add the tomato soup and 1/2 cup of water. Stir until combined, creating a rich, savory sauce. In the prepared casserole dish, layer the cooked pasta evenly, pour the beef mixture over it, and stir to coat the pasta thoroughly.

5. Adding the Cheese Layers (2 minutes)

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and beef mixture, spreading it evenly. Follow with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese for an extra gooey and flavorful topping.

6. Baking the Casserole (30 minutes)

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble to perfection.

7. Resting and Serving (3 minutes)

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 3 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Use a large spoon to scoop portions onto plates, and pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  1. Customize the Flavor: Add chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra texture and flavor.
  2. Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese blends like Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
  3. Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

This Easy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that brings families together around the dinner table. Its simplicity and versatility make it an excellent choice for busy nights or casual gatherings. With tender pasta, savory beef, and layers of melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try tonight, and savor the joy of a meal that’s as easy to make as it is to love!

enjoy!

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