There’s nothing quite like the aroma of bubbling cheese and ground beef wafting through your home as you prepare a hearty meal. This 4-ingredient Hamburger Casserole Recipe combines simplicity with comfort, making it the ultimate weeknight dish. Imagine layers of savory goodness melting together in one pan—your taste buds are already tingling in anticipation.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- How do I store leftovers from this casserole?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall the first time I served this dish to my family, their delighted faces told me all I needed to know. The cheers of “Yum!” and “More, please!” echoed around the table like sweet music. This is a recipe ideal for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something warm and satisfying without a lot of fuss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy hamburger casserole recipe simplifies dinner prep so you can spend more time with your family.
- With just four ingredients, it’s a breeze to make even on the busiest nights.
- The comforting flavors blend seamlessly for a satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Plus, it’s visually appealing with its golden cheese topping—guaranteed to impress!
I vividly remember the first time I made this casserole; my kids were practically dancing at the kitchen table when they caught a whiff of it baking.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease but still plenty of flavor; feel free to substitute turkey if preferred.
- Pasta (Macaroni or Shells): Choose your favorite pasta shape; it adds texture and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- Canned Tomato Soup: Opt for condensed tomato soup; it brings rich flavor without extra prep work.
- Shredded Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for a robust flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside while we gather our ingredients.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Prepare Pasta: While the beef cooks, boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside—don’t forget not to overcook it!
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked beef, drained pasta, and canned tomato soup. Stir well until everything is evenly coated; feel free to add spices if desired.
Add Cheese Topping: Transfer everything into your greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheese; let’s make this cheesy goodness melt perfectly!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place in preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—this is where magic happens!
Enjoy serving this delightful 4-ingredient Hamburger Casserole hot from the oven! Your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone rushing to the table. The best part? You’ll have plenty of leftovers for lunch tomorrow—or maybe not if everyone loves it as much as my family does!
You Must Know
- The 4-ingredient Hamburger Casserole Recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
- You can whip it up faster than your favorite TV show rerun.
- It’s a delicious blend of comfort food and simplicity, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef while preheating your oven. Combine the ingredients in a casserole dish and bake until bubbly and golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, and add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfect casserole, drain excess grease from the beef to avoid a soggy texture.
- Layer cheese on top just before baking for that melty goodness.
- Always let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air, and no one left hungry.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as healthier alternatives.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers from this casserole?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Delight in this easy 4-ingredient Hamburger Casserole, featuring savory ground beef, pasta, creamy tomato soup, and melted cheese—perfect for a quick weeknight meal your family will adore.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cups macaroni or shells
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a bowl, combine cooked beef, pasta, and tomato soup; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
