This Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver—savory ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese baked in a rich tomato-cream sauce until golden and bubbling. With just 6 simple ingredients, it’s a complete meal that skips the fuss but delivers big on flavor.
No pre-cooking pasta. No extra dishes. Just bold, satisfying comfort from one pan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥩 Only 6 ingredients—pantry staples!
- ⏱️ 10 minutes prep, 20–25 minutes bake
- 💛 One skillet + one baking dish = easy cleanup
- 💸 Costs under $8—feeds 6 generously
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free (use GF pasta)
Ingredients You’ll Need
(9x13-inch baking dish; serves 6)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or small shells
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery for variation)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1½ cups water
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder, diced onion, or green bell pepper
💡 Pro Tips:
- Use uncooked pasta—it absorbs liquid as it bakes.
- Drain beef well—excess fat makes casserole greasy.
- Layer cheese on top last for a golden, melty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Savory, Foolproof)
1. Brown the Beef
- In a large oven-safe skillet or pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink; drain fat thoroughly.
- Optional: Sauté onion or bell pepper with the beef for extra flavor.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients
