Hamburger Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining the savory goodness of seasoned ground hamburger with tender pasta shells and a cheesy tomato sauce. This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this delicious and filling recipe.
Ingredients:
1 lb box medium shells
1 lb ground hamburger, cooked with garlic, onion, salt, and pepper to taste
2 cans of tomato soup
1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted, boiling water, cook the medium shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Hamburger
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground hamburger with minced garlic, diced onion, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesy Tomato Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the two cans of tomato soup with the milk, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring until it’s well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta shells.
Spread the browned hamburger mixture evenly over the pasta.
Layer the remaining pasta shells over the hamburger.
Pour the cheesy tomato sauce evenly over the pasta.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle both the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Bake and Serve
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes:
You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding hot sauce.
This casserole is even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.
Hamburger Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family. With seasoned ground hamburger, tender pasta, and a cheesy tomato sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Enjoy this comforting meal on cozy weeknights or for special family gatherings.
