Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Only four ingredients and minimal steps.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples.
- Kid-Approved – A cheesy, meaty pasta dish everyone will enjoy.
- Perfect for Busy Nights – Quick prep and baking time make it a great go-to meal.
- Great for Leftovers – Reheats well for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until well coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: 420 kcal
Variations
- Add Veggies – Mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Use Different Cheese – Try cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan for a different flavor.
- Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
- Swap the Protein – Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta for a GF-friendly meal.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
How can I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover it with foil while baking to keep the moisture in, or add a little extra marinara sauce.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or even macaroni work great.
What’s the best way to drain the fat from ground beef?
Use a spoon to scoop out the grease or tilt the pan and drain it carefully into a bowl.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
How do I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground beef, and a low-sodium marinara sauce.
Can I add extra seasonings?
Definitely! Try garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or onion powder for extra flavor.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes! Just freeze before or after baking and reheat as needed.
Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?
Yes, but it may be a bit softer and creamier than shredded mozzarella.
How do I make it extra cheesy?
Add an extra layer of cheese in the middle before topping it off!
Conclusion
This 4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate easy comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and delicious meal for the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, this cheesy baked dish is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy a hassle-free, hearty meal!
4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole
A quick and hearty comfort meal made with just four simple ingredients! This cheesy, meaty casserole is perfect for busy nights when you need a satisfying dinner without the fuss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 3 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until well coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add seasonings like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes.
- You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Try using different cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan for variety.
