Hamburger Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh vegetables of choice)
• 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., macaroni, penne)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Beef:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce:

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce. Mix well.
2. Add the frozen peas and carrots, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are heated through.

Combine with Pasta:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture. Stir to combine.

Assemble the Casserole:

1. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
3. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cheddar cheese.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Serve:

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

• This Hamburger Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and cheese into one delicious, easy-to-make meal!