Hamburger Casserole

Hamburger Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped parsley, green onions, grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Casserole Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook Ground Beef and Aromatics:
   • In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
   • Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Add Tomatoes and Sauce:
   • Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth into the skillet with the cooked beef and onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Cook Pasta:
   • While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni or pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
5. Combine Beef Mixture and Pasta:
   • Transfer the cooked and drained pasta to the prepared casserole dish.
   • Pour the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the pasta in the casserole dish. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Bake:
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
   • Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
7. Serve:
   • After 20 minutes, remove the foil from the casserole dish and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
   • Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped parsley, green onions, or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy your comforting hamburger casserole!

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• You can substitute the cheddar cheese with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Enjoy your delicious hamburger casserole! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.