This easy hamburger casserole is a quick and satisfying meal that requires just five ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a few pantry staples for a delicious one-dish dinner.
The recipe is straightforward and ideal for families, making it a great option for those looking for a hearty meal without extensive preparation.
Quick and Easy Hamburger Casserole
This hamburger casserole is a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal.
With just five ingredients, it simplifies dinner preparation, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the meal with family or friends.
Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for those looking for a hearty meal without extensive cooking time.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity.
Using just a pound of ground beef, two cups of uncooked pasta, a can of diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and beef broth, you can create a satisfying dish that pleases everyone at the table.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, from the savory beef to the creamy cheese topping.
This combination not only tastes great but also provides a balanced meal that is filling and nutritious.
Preparation Steps
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
While the oven warms up, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring it’s cooked thoroughly.
Draining excess fat is crucial for a lighter dish.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, uncooked pasta, and beef broth.
Mix everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together before transferring the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Baking to Perfection
Once your mixture is in the baking dish, it’s time to add the finishing touch: a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.
This layer of cheese will melt beautifully, creating a golden, bubbly top that is simply irresistible.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
After this initial baking period, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to achieve that perfect golden color.
Serving Suggestions
When the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden, it’s ready to serve.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hamburger casserole is sure to impress.
Its comforting flavors and satisfying texture make it a dish that everyone will enjoy.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a good balance of nutrients.
With approximately 450 calories per serving, it offers a hearty meal without excessive calories.
Each serving contains 30 grams of protein, making it a filling option for those needing a protein boost.
The combination of carbohydrates from the pasta and healthy fats from the cheese ensures a well-rounded dish that can keep you energized throughout the day.
Quick and Easy Hamburger Casserole
This hamburger casserole features seasoned ground beef layered with pasta and topped with melted cheese. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow or penne)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), uncooked pasta, and beef broth. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g