Description

Some recipes have a way of transporting us back to simpler times, bringing with them a flood of memories and nostalgia. This dish is one such treasure. My aunt used to make it during family gatherings, and for years, I thought it was lost to time. Imagine my surprise when I stumbled across it again—and it’s even better than I remember!

This recipe is a true heirloom, combining comforting flavors with an effortless preparation process. It’s a celebration of tradition, but it’s also a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that can easily adapt to modern kitchens. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, its rich flavors and creamy textures are sure to make it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• For the main dish:
• 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cups of cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne works best)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the topping:
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter

Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large casserole dish.
2. Brown ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until meat is done and onion is translucent. Drain excess grease.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
4. In the skillet, add diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until heated through.
5. Fold in cooked pasta until evenly coated with the sauce. Pour mixture into the casserole dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta.
7. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and distribute over cheese. Top with shredded mozzarella.
8. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and topping is golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken, or use a mix of cheeses you already have on hand. You can also add a cup of cooked vegetables, like peas or bell peppers, to make it a one-pot meal.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. Want to freeze it? Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes.
This rediscovered family recipe is a true gem that brings together the best of nostalgia and modern convenience. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor—a dish that’s just as satisfying to prepare as it is to eat.

Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. If you loved this recipe, be sure to explore our Classic Comfort Foods or Easy Weeknight Casseroles for more inspiration. Don’t forget to share this dish with friends and family—it’s too good to keep to yourself!