Super easy. It’s a dump meal. Total cost about $12 or less… this one feeds a lot.

💸 Why You’ll Love This Budget-Friendly Wonder

• ✅ Dump-and-go — minimal prep, no standing over the stove
• ✅ Feeds 6–8 people (or leaves you with delicious leftovers)
• ✅ Budget-approved — around $12 total, depending on store prices
• ✅ Customizable — use what you have on hand

🛒 Basic Ingredients (Example Version)

Here’s a classic dump-and-bake casserole version:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey – $3.00
• 1 box pasta (penne or rotini) – $1.00
• 1 jar pasta sauce – $1.50
• 1 can diced tomatoes – $1.00
• 1 can corn or mixed veggies – $1.00
• 2 cups shredded cheese – $2.50
• 1 packet taco seasoning or Italian seasoning – $0.50
• Optional: sour cream or green onions for topping – $1.00

📌 Total: Roughly $11–12 depending on brands and location

👩‍🍳 How to Make It (Dump-and-Bake Style)

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta just until al dente (optional – some versions use uncooked pasta, but slightly cooking helps the texture).
3. Brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat.
4. In a large casserole dish, dump in:
   • Cooked pasta
   • Cooked beef
   • Pasta sauce
   • Diced tomatoes
   • Veggies
   • Seasoning packet
   • Half of the shredded cheese
5. Mix everything together in the baking dish.
6. Top with remaining cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
7. Uncover and bake for 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream or chopped green onions.

📝 Tips & Variations

• Swap ground beef for cooked shredded chicken or go meatless with beans.
• Add frozen veggies to stretch it even further.
• Use rice instead of pasta for a burrito bowl-style casserole.
• Spice it up with jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili powder.
• This freezes great! Make two and save one for later.
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