Description
When the craving for comfort hits but time is tight, this Cheeseburger Casserole brings the magic—no drive-thru required. Think melty cheddar, savory beef, and tender pasta shells all wrapped in a tangy tomato blanket that tastes like your favorite burger, no grill needed. It’s family-tested, weeknight-approved, and just chaotic enough to feel like home. Grab your dish—it’s time to bake up some smiles!
Ingredients
-
1 box medium pasta shells
-
1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
-
2 cans (10.5 oz each) tomato soup
-
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
-
½ cup water
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
1 tsp onion powder
-
½ tsp smoked paprika
-
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente (~7 mins). Drain, don’t rinse.
-
Brown Beef: In a skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat until browned (8–10 mins). Drain grease. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the last 2 mins.
-
Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine pasta, beef, tomato soup, water, and 2 cups cheese. Stir gently. If too thick, add pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.
-
Bake: Transfer to greased 9×13 dish. Top with remaining cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 mins until bubbly and golden. Let rest 5 mins before serving.
Notes
-
Add cooked bacon or jalapeños for flair.
-
Swap beef for turkey or plant-based crumbles.
-
Assemble ahead: refrigerate up to 24 hrs, bake with extra 5–10 mins.
-
Freeze leftovers: reheat with foil cover at 350°F.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
Nutrition
- Calories: 410 cal Per Serving
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g