Hamburger Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the comfort of pasta with the savory richness of ground beef and cheese. It’s a recipe that exudes warmth and homeliness, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, known for its ease of preparation and its ability to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
I have a vivid memory of my mother preparing this casserole on busy weeknights. The sizzling sound of ground beef browning in the skillet, the aromatic blend of garlic and spices filling the kitchen, and the sight of cheese melting to perfection always signaled that a delicious meal was on the way. Now, as I make this dish for my own family, it not only serves as a comforting meal but also as a bridge to cherished memories from my childhood.
Ingredients
1 (1lb) box medium pasta shells
1lb ground beef
2 (10oz) cans tomato soup
2 cups shredded cheddar
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup water
Garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the 1lb box of medium pasta shells and cook according to the package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the oven reaches the correct temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the casserole.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This step is essential to prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish, making it easier to serve and clean up.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, add the 1lb of ground beef. Season it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning based on your preference or add other spices such as onion powder or paprika.
Cook the beef over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, until it is fully browned and cooked through. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Combine Pasta and Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the beef.
Add Tomato Soup and Cheese:
Pour in the 2 cans of tomato soup and 1/2 cup of water. Stir to mix thoroughly.
Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup) to the skillet. Stir and cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the ingredients to combine.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
Top with Remaining Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) and shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup) evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will form a delicious, gooey topping as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps to trap moisture and heat, ensuring the casserole cooks evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Uncover and Continue Baking:
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. For an extra golden-brown and crispy cheese topping, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve
Cool Slightly and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve and allows the flavors to meld.
Serve the Hamburger Casserole immediately. Enjoy it on its own or with a simple side salad or garlic bread.
Store Leftovers:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
Hamburger Casserole is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions to consider:
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a mixture of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.
Spicy Twist: Add a can of diced green chilies or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for added flavor.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta shells for a healthier option that adds extra fiber to the dish.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta shells and ensure the tomato soup is gluten-free.
Conclusion
Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the classic flavors of pasta, ground beef, and melted cheese. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering. The rich, savory taste of the casserole combined with its creamy, cheesy topping is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
The ability to customize the casserole to fit various dietary preferences and tastes further enhances its appeal. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist, Hamburger Casserole is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious, nostalgic dish, and create wonderful memories with every bite.
