When the summer heat kicks in, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours in the kitchen. My grandmother, always a believer in “simple is best,” would whip up this creamy, cheesy hamburger casserole for those long summer evenings. It’s hearty, satisfying, and so easy you’ll wonder why you ever complicated dinner. This recipe is an ode to those cherished summer dinners—quick, delicious, and loved by all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Summer Hamburger Casserole
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Minimal Ingredients: Only 4 simple ingredients.
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Perfect for Summer Gatherings: Easy to double for BBQs and potlucks.
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Comforting yet Light: Balanced with creamy mushroom sauce and cheesy goodness without being heavy.
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Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples, no fancy ingredients.
Ingredients
For 4 servings, you will need:
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1 pound ground beef
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1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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8 ounces rotini or elbow pasta
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
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Cook 8 ounces of pasta (rotini or elbow) according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
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In a large skillet, brown 1 pound ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
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Drain excess fat to keep the dish light and not greasy.
Step 4: Mix & Layer
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Combine the cooked pasta and ground beef in a large mixing bowl.
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Stir in 1 can of cream of mushroom soup until well coated.
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Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Top evenly with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
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Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
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Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
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Pair with a crisp summer salad or fresh corn on the cob.
Serving Suggestions for a Summer Twist
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Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.
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Crispy Topping: Add a layer of seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
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Summer Veggie Add-ins: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for more color and freshness.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
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Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
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Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Why This Hamburger Casserole is Perfect for Summer
Unlike heavy winter casseroles, this summer version is lightened by using lean ground beef and a single can of cream of mushroom soup. The mozzarella adds melty goodness without overwhelming the dish, making it perfect for warm-weather dinners where you still crave comfort but not the heaviness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~450 kcal
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Protein: 25g
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Fat: 22g
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Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes! Cream of chicken or even a homemade béchamel sauce works if you prefer.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy, cheesy flavors are always a hit with kids.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
While best baked for a golden crust, you can heat it through in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours.