Hamburger Casserole

Hamburger Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s made with ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Here’s a simple recipe to make this delicious casserole:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (or crushed tomatoes if you prefer)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta you prefer)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Add the tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth (or water). Add the cream of mushroom soup and Italian seasoning (if using). Stir everything together and simmer for 5-7 minutes until heated through and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine pasta and beef mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. Add cheese: Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese). Mix until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the pasta and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve: Serve hot as a main dish with a side salad or some garlic bread.

Variations:

• Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use different cheese: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give the casserole a little heat.

This hamburger casserole is a family-friendly dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Enjoy!