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This soul-warming hamburger bake turns basic pantry items into a delicious dinner that'll make everyone happy. Combining soft shell pasta, flavorful ground beef, and velvety tomato sauce creates a family favorite that brings folks running to dinner with eager appetites.
I whipped this casserole up when my fussy nephew stopped by for dinner, and it was his first time asking for more food. It's now my go-to meal whenever I need everyone to clean their plates.
Ingredients
- Medium pasta shells: Grab the sauce and cheese in every mouthful with this perfect shape
- Ground beef: Adds rich meaty flavor and fills you up nicely
- Canned tomato soup: Makes a smooth sauce with zero fuss
- Shredded cheddar: Gives that bold cheese taste that turns golden when baked
- Shredded mozzarella: Creates those long cheese pulls everyone fights over
- Water: Makes the sauce flow just right for coating everything
- Garlic powder: Adds that can't-miss savory touch to the meat
- Salt and pepper: Bring all the flavors together nicely
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Boil the pasta shells following the box directions until firm to the bite. Don't let them get too soft since they'll cook more in the oven. Drain them well to keep extra water out of your dish.
- Brown the Beef:
- Put a large skillet on medium heat and cook the ground beef until it's no longer pink. Break it into tiny bits while it cooks for the best texture. Sprinkle in plenty of garlic powder, salt and pepper to match what your family likes.
- Create the Casserole Mixture:
- Toss the drained pasta, both soup cans, half cup of water, and half the cheese blend into the pan with your cooked beef. Mix everything up well and let it simmer 2-3 minutes so the flavors start to blend.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Dump the whole mix into a greased 9×13 baking dish and smooth it out. Scatter the rest of the cheese on top to make a tasty melty layer. Cover with foil and pop it in a 375°F oven for 20 minutes.
- Final Browning:
- Take the foil off and cook another 10 minutes until the cheese is all melty and starting to bubble. For an extra pretty top, flip on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to get that golden brown cheese crust.
The tomato soup is what makes this dish really stand out. My grandma always picked it over spaghetti sauce, and its slight sweetness works so well with the savory meat. Every time I make this, I'm back in her kitchen learning that simple stuff often makes the tastiest food.
Make It Your Own
This hamburger dish works with whatever you've got in your kitchen. Swap in ground turkey or chicken if you want something lighter. Any pasta shape will do - try twisty rotini, tube-shaped penne, or curvy elbows if that's what you have. No matter what changes you make, it'll still give you that warm, cozy feeling.
Storage and Reheating
This dish stays good in the fridge for up to three days if you keep it in a sealed container. To warm it up, cover with foil and stick it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until it's hot all the way through. Or just microwave single portions for 1-2 minutes. If it seems a bit dry when reheating, splash in a spoonful of water first.
Serving Suggestions
Round out your meal with a basic green salad with tangy dressing to balance the richness. Some garlic bread works great for scooping up leftover sauce. If you want a bigger spread, add some roasted broccoli or carrots to boost the nutrition and complement the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch out the pasta type?
Sure, swap the medium shells for penne, rotini, or even macaroni—just watch the timing as it might need adjusting.
- → Can I toss in veggies?
Definitely! Try mixing in onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms while cooking the beef for added flavor and nutrients.
- → Are there other cheese options?
You bet! Try using Monterey Jack, Colby, or your favorite cheese blend to switch things up.
- → Can I make it in advance?
Totally! Prepare the full dish and keep it in the fridge (up to a day) before baking. Just bake a little longer when cold.
- → How do I store leftovers safely?
Pack leftovers in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat either in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until hot.