Easy Hamburger Pasta Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together without hassle, you’re going to love this Easy Hamburger Pasta Casserole Recipe. This recipe is one of my absolute favorites for busy weeknights—it’s comforting, cheesy, and uses just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have. Trust me, once you try it, this casserole will become your go-to for quick family dinners or potlucks!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy Hamburger Pasta Casserole Recipe is in how well these straightforward ingredients combine into something truly comforting and satisfying. Plus, I like to keep things simple with the basics, but I have a few tips in the list below to elevate the flavors and customize it your way.

• Medium pasta shells: I prefer shells because their shape holds the sauce and beef perfectly, but you can swap for elbow macaroni or penne if you like.
• Ground beef: Use 80/20 for juiciness and flavor; leaner beef can get dry. I like to season it well with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for that savory depth.
• Tomato soup (canned): This adds a lovely tangy sweetness and helps create the creamy sauce, no canned tomatoes or tomato paste needed.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild works – sharp gives it a punch, but mild melts beautifully.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: I love mixing in mozzarella because it adds that irresistible gooey stretchiness on top.
• Water: Helps thin the tomato soup just enough to coat the pasta nicely without being soupy.
• Garlic, salt & pepper: Simple staples that bring out the best in the beef and tie everything together.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Easy Hamburger Pasta Casserole Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you’re craving or what’s in your pantry. I often play around with different cheeses or add-ins to keep it fresh.

• Add veggies: I sometimes toss in diced bell peppers or mushrooms sautéed with the beef for extra nutrition and flavor—my kids barely notice!
• Use different cheese blends: Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or add a bit of Parmesan on top for a nice crust.
• Spice it up: Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to give it a little kick.
• Swap pasta types: If you want something gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta shells—the cooking time adjusts slightly but it still works beautifully.

How to Make Easy Hamburger Pasta Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook your pasta just right

Start by boiling your pasta shells according to package directions—usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This little step matters because overcooked pasta can turn mushy after baking, so keep a sharp eye on timing.

Step 2: Brown and season your hamburger

While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and season generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring and breaking up clumps until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink — this usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.

Step 3: Combine ingredients in the skillet

Once your beef is cooked, add the drained pasta into the skillet along with the tomato soup, water, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir everything together over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors marry and the cheese begin melting into that luscious sauce.

Step 4: Transfer to baking dish and bake

Grease a 9×13 baking dish, then pour the beef and pasta mixture in. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. If you want that golden, bubbly cheesy finish like I do, pop it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end—just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!

Serve it immediately, and enjoy how that melty, comforting goodness comes together in every bite.

How to Serve Easy Hamburger Pasta Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I often sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little chopped green onion on top for a pop of color and mild freshness. Sometimes a few red pepper flakes add a gentle zip that cuts through the richness, especially for adults.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines with simple sides like a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or roasted veggies such as broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect if you want to make the meal extra cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I like to bake it in individual ramekins or loaf pans for personal portions. It’s also fun to layer in a clear glass casserole so you can see those cheesy, meaty layers—the presentation definitely sparks conversation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually let mine cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation buildup, which helps prevent sogginess.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole successfully a couple of times. Just cool it completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer popping leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave a single portion, but be careful not to overdo it or the pasta gets dry and chewy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Hamburger Pasta Casserole Recipe has been a lifesaver in my kitchen time and time again. There’s something really comforting about that cheesy, meaty, tomato-rich combination that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or taking it to a potluck, this casserole brings smiles and happy plates every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—seriously, once you’ve had it, you’ll be making it again and again!

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