Hamburger Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family, and it’s versatile enough to suit different tastes and preferences. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Hamburger Casserole, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 (1 lb) box medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 (10 oz) cans tomato soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup water
- Garlic, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef:
- Season the browned ground beef with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned ground beef, tomato soup, and 1/2 cup of water. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
- Fill Baking Dish:
- Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
- Cheese: Feel free to adjust the amount and type of cheese to your liking. Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but you can also use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.
Variations:
- Vegetable Addition:
- Add vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the ground beef while cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef for a spicy kick.
- Herb Flavor:
- Stir in fresh or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, follow the baking instructions as directed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. What can I serve with Hamburger Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
5. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any medium-sized pasta such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni instead of medium pasta shells.
Hamburger Casserole is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its flavorful ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is simple to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Hamburger Casserole recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and tasty meal. Happy cooking!
