1-Step 1: Brown the Beef Mixture Brown the 1 pound ground beef with 1/2 cup chopped onion and 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic in a skillet. Cook until beef is done and onion tender. Drain excess fat for a leaner weeknight casserole.

2-Step 2: Cook the Pasta While beef cooks, boil 2 cups uncooked macaroni pasta per package directions. Drain and set aside. This keeps the easy hamburger supreme casserole for families efficient.

3-Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce Stir in 1 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, and drained 4-ounce can mushrooms into the hamburger mixture. Simmer briefly to blend flavors.

4-Step 4: Layer the Casserole In a 2-quart casserole dish, layer half the hamburger mixture, half the cooked macaroni, and half the 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, but reserve half the cheese for the top.

5-Step 5: First Bake Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. The cheese starts melting into the comfort food casserole.

6-Step 6: Finish with Cheese Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Return to oven for a few minutes until cheese fully melts and bubbles. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.