Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Tast Stuffed with Pasta and Ground Beef (Print version)

A cheesy hamburger casserole loaded with pasta and ground beef, baked until bubbly for a cozy family dinner.

# Ingredients:

For the meat sauce

01 - 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) whole peeled tomatoes, blended smooth
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the pasta and topping

08 - 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
09 - 1 cup (110 g) shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 1 cup (110 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Cook onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef, break it up with a spatula, and cook until browned. Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper.
02 - Pour in blended tomatoes. Stir and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened.
03 - Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente, 1 to 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain well and do not rinse.
04 - Stir drained pasta into the beef mixture until evenly coated.
05 - Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella over the top. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
06 - Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

# Good to know:

01 - Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
02 - Use a 10-inch oven-safe skillet or transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish.