Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most irresistible casserole that promises to become an instant family favorite! This mouthwatering one-dish wonder combines hearty ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight meal or a home cook craving something comforting and delicious, this casserole is about to become your new go-to recipe that checks all the boxes of flavor, convenience, and pure satisfaction.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the ground beef using a colander, then return the meat to the skillet.
- Add cream of mushroom soup, onion powder, and frozen peas to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir thoroughly to combine and create a cohesive mixture.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix gently, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the beef and soup mixture.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties, which can sometimes be less melty.
- Allow ground beef to brown completely to develop a rich, deep flavor before adding other ingredients.
- If you want to add more vegetables, consider diced carrots or bell peppers for additional nutrition and texture.
- To prevent a dry casserole, ensure you don't overcook and let it rest for a few minutes after baking to retain moisture.
- For a crispy top, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
