- Prep the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Set your rack in the center. This ensures everything bakes evenly and the cheese browns just right
- Brown the Beef and Onion:
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble in the ground beef and add the chopped onion. Cook together for about 8 minutes. Stir occasionally and use a spoon to break up the meat. Aim for a deep brown color on the beef and softened onion. This step builds rich savory flavor
- Drain and Combine Sauces:
- Carefully drain off excess fat from the skillet. Return the beef and onions to the heat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it heat until bubbling. The tomato and soup meld together into a creamy savory sauce
- Add Pasta:
- Once the sauce is ready, fold in the cooked pasta. Use a spatula to make sure every piece of pasta gets coated. Transform all the ingredients into a cohesive savory mixture
- Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Lightly grease a large baking dish with a bit of oil or butter. Scoop in the beef and pasta mixture. Spread evenly for best baking and presentation
- Top With Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture. Do not skimp on coverage. Let the cheese reach edge to edge for bubbling results
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the cheese is melted and starts bubbling up the edges. Watch closely for a golden irresistible top
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole rest about five minutes out of the oven. This helps the layers set and makes serving cleaner and easier. Enjoy each cheesy bite
ADVERTISEMENT
