Made This Last Night for the Fam and We Scraped the Casserole Clean!

There’s something so comforting about a hearty casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, fills the kitchen with delicious aromas, and usually leaves you with leftovers for the next day—except when it’s so good that not a single spoonful survives! That’s exactly what happened when I made this cheesy, hearty casserole last night. The family devoured it, and the dish was left completely empty.

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing recipe, this casserole is it. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional, for a touch of sweetness and crunch)
1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne work best)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente—soft but still with a little bite. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef (or turkey), onions, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano for flavor.