4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole (Quick & Easy)

Ingredients

• 1 lb medium pasta shells (1 box; cook according to package directions and drain)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 10 oz cans tomato soup (20 oz total)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Use half in the skillet and half for topping)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (Use half in the skillet and half for topping; 100% cheddar may be used instead)
• 0.5 cup water
• garlic powder (To taste)
• salt (To taste)
• black pepper (To taste)
• oil or nonstick cooking spray (For greasing the 9x13-inch baking dish)

Steps

1. 1

   Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions, until tender but not overcooked. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

3. 3

   Place the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Brown the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. 4

   Add the drained pasta shells, tomato soup, and water to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir until evenly combined.

5. 5

   Add half of the combined shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Stir and cook over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese begins to melt and the mixture is hot throughout.

6. 6

   Transfer the beef-and-pasta mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

7. 7

   Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

8. 8

   Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

9. 9

   Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

10. 10

    For a toastier top, turn on the broiler for the final 2–3 minutes, watching closely so the cheese does not burn.

11. 11

    Serve immediately. Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 3 days.

Notes

Mozzarella can be replaced with additional cheddar. For variation, add diced onion or onion powder to the beef while browning. The casserole may be served with salad or broccoli, and leftovers reheat well in the microwave.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• casserole
• American
• family-friendly
• budget-friendly
• weeknight dinner
• baked
• beef