Grandma's Hamburger Casserole Recipe

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">500g lean ground beef</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium onion, finely diced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 garlic cloves, minced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 red bell pepper, diced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">250g pasta shells (or elbow macaroni)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">400g canned chopped tomatoes</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">250ml beef stock</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp tomato paste</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried oregano</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried basil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp paprika</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">200g grated cheddar cheese</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">50g grated parmesan cheese</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt and pepper to taste</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)</li> </ul>

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">2-liter (9x13 inch) baking dish</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Large skillet or frying pan</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Large pot for boiling pasta</li> </ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease your baking dish. This preparation ensures your casserole won't stick and will heat evenly throughout. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so keeping it slightly firm now prevents it from becoming mushy in the final dish. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown and become bitter. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. The caramelization that occurs when browning the meat adds significant depth of flavor to your casserole. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened. Add the tomato paste and stir for 1 minute to cook off the raw flavor and intensify its sweetness. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Pour in the canned tomatoes and beef stock, then add the dried oregano, basil, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Drain the pasta well and add it to the meat sauce, stirring gently to combine. The hot pasta will immediately begin absorbing the flavorful sauce, enhancing its taste. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Transfer half of the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese, then add the remaining pasta mixture. This layering technique ensures cheese throughout the casserole, not just on top. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Top with the remaining cheddar and all of the parmesan cheese. The combination of these cheeses creates both melty stretchy texture and savory depth, while the parmesan forms a beautiful golden crust. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4> Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown on top. If you want an extra crispy top, place under the grill (broiler) for the final 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 11</h4> Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the sauce to be reabsorbed and the layers to set, making it easier to serve neat portions. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 12</h4> Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a bright flavor contrast and beautiful color. Enjoy your homemade Grandma's Hamburger Casserole, perfect with a simple green salad on the side! </li> </ol>