Quick And Easy Pasta
A creamy, cheesy pasta bake featuring Velveeta shells, flavorful hamburger, spicy pepperoni, and melted mozzarella, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare Velveeta and shells according to directions on the box. Brown the hamburger and drain excess fat.
- Pour the cooked Velveeta and shells into the bottom of a casserole dish. Add the crumbled cooked hamburger.
- Pour spaghetti sauce over the mixture to cover evenly.
- Add thinly sliced pepperoni on top and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian seasoning or garlic powder with the hamburger while browning. You can substitute the Velveeta and shells with any creamy cheese sauce and pasta of your choice if preferred. To make it lighter, try using ground turkey instead of hamburger. This dish is versatile, just like the delicious Country Supper Soup.
Serving Suggestions
This quick and easy pasta dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing vegetable dish like steamed broccoli or roasted zucchini for added nutrition. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Pasta contains roughly 356 calories, with 24g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1981mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives to hamburger. You could even try using Italian sausage for a spicier flavor. Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before mixing it with the pasta.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can replace the hamburger with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a veggie-packed option. Use a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the spaghetti sauce. You could also use spicy pepperoni or add a dash of hot sauce before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).