Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (Use 80/20 for flavor; substitute ground turkey for leaner option)
- 8 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni or similar; cook al dente to avoid mushy texture)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or blend; sharp cheddar gives more punch)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup (condensed; cream of chicken or celery are acceptable swaps)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk for richness; low-fat milk reduces calories)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic may be used)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (chopped onions are optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup chopped optional vegetables (onions, bell peppers; sauté before adding)
Instructions
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta thoroughly and set aside.
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking into small pieces. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add cream of mushroom soup and milk to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; simmer briefly.
- Stir in any optional sautéed vegetables until evenly distributed.
- Combine the cooked pasta with half of the shredded cheese and the beef mixture in the skillet.
- Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole rest five minutes after baking, then serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness; use whole milk for richness; let casserole rest before serving for better portioning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: casserole, hamburger, pasta, comfort food, easy dinner