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Hamburger Casserole

4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole Recipe

The Crispy Chef
This comforting 4-ingredient hamburger casserole comes together quickly with ground beef, pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, feeding the whole family with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 460 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Aluminum foil
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 preferred
  • 12 oz uncooked pasta penne or rotini
  • 24 oz marinara sauce 1 jar
  • 2 cups shredded cheese mozzarella, cheddar, or Mexican blend

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat but leave about 1 tablespoon.
  • Combine ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, mix cooked beef, uncooked pasta, and marinara sauce. Ensure the mix looks saucy. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
  • Bake covered: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes until the pasta is nearly tender.
  • Add cheese: Remove foil, top with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Notes

Customize with added vegetables, beans, or seasoning blends.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Substitute rice or cauliflower rice for a pasta alternative.
Slow cooker instructions: Cook on low 3–4 hours, add cheese in last 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 460kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 28gFat: 22g
Keyword hamburger casserole
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