4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole – The Easiest Weeknight Comfort Food!
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This 4-ingredient hamburger casserole is a cheesy, comforting, quick-fix dinner made with ground beef, noodles, and cream of mushroom soup!
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4-ingredient hamburger casserole
A Family Favorite with Just 4 Ingredients!
Busy weeknights call for something easy, cheesy, and guaranteed to please the whole family—and this 4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole checks every box. With just a handful of pantry staples and under an hour from start to finish, it’s a hearty meal that’s budget-friendly and kid-approved.
Think: savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey melted cheddar cheese all baked together into one irresistible casserole. It's perfect for beginners, meal-preppers, or anyone who loves simple comfort food.
Ingredients Overview
You only need 4 simple ingredients:
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1 pound ground beef – the hearty protein base
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1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – adds rich creaminess
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2 cups egg noodles (cooked) – soft, tender pasta to hold it all together
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – melted and bubbly topping
Optional:
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Parsley (for garnish, if desired)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks and drain excess fat once done.
3. Add the Soup
Stir in 1 can of cream of mushroom soup. Season with a bit of salt and pepper. Mix well.
4. Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked egg noodles and stir everything together until coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips, Variations & Add-Ons
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Add Veggies: Mix in peas, green beans, or corn for extra nutrition.
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Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of milk or sour cream with the soup for added creaminess.
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Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
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Add seasoning: Try garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze baked casserole portions for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready (add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if chilled).
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce.
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or even macaroni work great—just cook them before adding.
Conclusion: A Go-To Dinner You'll Make Again and Again
With minimal ingredients and maximum comfort, this 4-Ingredient Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate weeknight hero. Whether you're feeding picky kids or craving old-school comfort food, this one’s a keeper