Description
This cozy casserole is the definition of simple comfort food. Packed with ground beef, tender pasta, and creamy tomato-mushroom sauce, then topped with layers of melty cheddar and mozzarella, it’s a budget-friendly dinner that tastes like a warm hug in a dish.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder Salt and pepper, to taste
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Fresh parsley, optional for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess grease. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and heated through.
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In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta on the bottom. Add half of the beef mixture and sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
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Repeat the layers with remaining pasta, beef mixture, and cheddar cheese.
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Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese.
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Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
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Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance and refrigerate. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
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Pasta Options: Any short pasta works well — penne, shells, or rotini hold the sauce nicely.
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Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a flavor twist.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
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Freezer Friendly: Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American