Hamburger Casserole: https://bakingwithmom.com/hamburger-casserole/ Chicken and Dressing Casserole: …

source

What’s For Dinner? (#137) | EASY Hamburger Casserole | Fast Dinner Ideas!

When dinner time rolls around, figuring out what to make can often be a daunting task. For those busy weeknights when time is short and hunger is high, an easy yet satisfying meal is a must! Enter the EASY Hamburger Casserole—a delicious, hearty dish that promises to please the whole family without breaking a sweat.

Why Hamburger Casserole?

Hamburger casserole is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also versatile and can be made with ingredients you likely have on hand. This all-in-one dish is perfect for using up leftover vegetables, pasta, or cheese. Plus, it’s customizable; you can easily modify it to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet flavorful recipe:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or any type you have)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen peas and carrots work great)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

To the skillet, add the drained pasta, diced tomatoes, beef broth, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine. Cook on medium-low for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 4: Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Once baked, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This makes for a comforting, melty meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this hamburger casserole is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. Increase the vegetable content for a hearty, meatless meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
• Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack.

Conclusion

The EASY Hamburger Casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights—quick, filling, and delicious. This dish is not only a fantastic option for dinner but also makes great leftovers for lunch. So, the next time you find yourself asking "What’s for dinner?", give this simple casserole a try, and enjoy a meal that everyone in your family will love!

Cooking Tip

To save even more time, consider browning the ground beef and chopping the veggies ahead of time on your less hectic days. This way, you can quickly assemble and bake your casserole when it’s time for dinner!

Enjoy your cooking adventure!