Description
This Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole features seasoned ground beef combined with creamy tomato soup, tender pasta shells, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked together into one comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying family dinner that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 blend works best for flavor and texture
- 1 pound small pasta shells, uncooked
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) tomato soup, condensed
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 cups shredded cheese, cheddar or a combination of cheddar and American cheese
- to taste salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, optional, for a crispy topping
- 2 tablespoons butter, optional, to toast the breadcrumb topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, until it is no longer pink.
- Drain and Season: Drain excess fat from the skillet, then season the cooked beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your taste.
- Add the Soup Base: Pour in both cans of tomato soup and the water, stirring well to combine and creating a creamy, savory sauce.
- Cook the Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pasta shells according to package directions until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain well.
- Combine: Stir the cooked pasta into the beef and soup mixture in the skillet, combining all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble and Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture, reserving a handful if you would like extra coverage.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes