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Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake

Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines pasta with hearty ground beef. This bake is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. It’s an easy way to make a filling meal that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The creamy flavor and cheesy goodness will satisfy even the hungriest of eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to use ingredients you probably already have at home. Everyone enjoys a warm, cheesy pasta dish, and this Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite.

How to Make Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake

Making Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

8 ounces penne pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake

Serve the Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake hot from the oven. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the bake for up to 2 months. Make sure to use an airtight container for freezing.

Tips to Make Creamy Hamburger Pasta Bake

For extra flavor, use freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley.
You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for some added nutrition.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

Variation

If you’d like to switch it up, you can use different types of pasta like rotini or farfalle. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready!

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.