Cheesy Hamburger Shell Pasta Bake

 

 

 

This gooey and comforting Hamburger Shell Pasta Bake is a delightful combination of hearty hamburger, tender shell pasta, rich tomato soup, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Customize the seasonings to your taste and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground hamburger
  • 2 (or 3, for extra meaty goodness) regular cans of tomato soup
  • 1 lb (450g) medium shell pasta
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Half can of water (using the tomato soup can)
  • Seasonings of your choice (such as WOW seasoning, garlic salt, or your preferred blend)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  3. Brown the Hamburger: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground hamburger until it’s fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the tomato soup and half a can of water. Stir well to combine. Adjust the quantity of soup based on your preference for sauciness. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season the sauce with your chosen seasonings. Taste and adjust as needed to suit your preference.
  5. Combine Pasta, Hamburger, and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shell pasta, browned hamburger, and the tomato soup sauce. Mix well to ensure that the pasta and meat are evenly coated with the sauce.
  6. Add Cheese: Add 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the pasta mixture. Mix until the cheese is well incorporated and creates a creamy, cheesy sauce.
  7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cheesy pasta and hamburger mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  8. Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
  10. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your gooey and cheesy Hamburger Shell Pasta Bake with your favorite side salad or garlic bread.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends and seasonings to create your own unique twist on this delightful dish. Enjoy your meal! 😊

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger? Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger in this recipe. It will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious and hearty.

2. Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for medium shell pasta, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rotini, or even macaroni will work well.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions. Keep in mind that the baking time might need to be extended slightly if the dish is cold from the refrigerator.

4. Can I freeze the Cheesy Hamburger Shell Pasta Bake? Yes, this pasta bake can be frozen. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it as directed in the recipe.

5. What other cheeses can I use in this recipe? You can experiment with various cheese combinations. Besides cheddar and mozzarella, you can try using provolone, Gruyere, Parmesan, or any other melty cheese you like. Mixing different cheeses can add complexity to the flavor.

6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this pasta bake by omitting the hamburger. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the dish’s flavors and nutritional content.

7. How can I make it spicier? If you prefer a spicier pasta bake, you can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. Be cautious with the quantity, especially if you’re serving it to people who may not enjoy too much spice.

8. What side dishes go well with this Cheesy Hamburger Shell Pasta Bake? This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a side of roasted asparagus. These sides balance out the richness of the pasta bake.

Feel free to tailor this recipe to your preferences, and don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients to make it your own! Enjoy your cooking!

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