This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish packed with ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s perfect for busy nights and tastes like a warm hug!
I love how quickly it comes together—just mix everything in one pot, bake, and enjoy! Plus, leftovers make for a fantastic lunch the next day. Who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and fat. If you want to lighten it up, lean turkey or chicken can work well too.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to swap in egg noodles or other pasta shapes like rotini. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if you have dietary needs.
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce makes this dish easy. For more flavor, you could use diced tomatoes or even marinara sauce if you have it handy. Just keep an eye on the seasoning!
Cheese: Cheddar is a great choice for that melty goodness. If you want something different, try pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder option.
Onion: Adding diced onion enhances flavor but it’s optional. If you’re not a fan, consider using onion powder instead.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor While Cooking the Beef?
Cooking the beef properly is the foundation for a tasty casserole. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or butter.
- Once hot, add the onion first to soften it, then add the ground beef.
- Break the beef into small pieces and stir frequently to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.
- Cook until no longer pink, usually around 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and spices, allowing them to simmer together—this boosts the flavor of the entire dish.
By taking your time with the beef, you’ll create a richer and more satisfying casserole that everyone will love!
How to Make Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced (optional)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or egg noodles
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, for a total of around 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner without spending all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni or egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are just al dente. Once done, drain them well and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil or melt the butter. If you’re using onion, add the diced onion and sautĂ© it for about 3 minutes until it’s nice and soft.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the softened onion. Cook the beef, stirring and breaking it apart until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any extra fat from the pan for a leaner dish.
5. Add the Sauce and Seasonings:
Pour in the tomato sauce, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This helps all those yummy flavors meld together!
6. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, beef mixture, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the milk. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the casserole mixture into it, spreading it out evenly so every bite gets cheesy goodness.
8. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of your casserole. This will create that delicious, bubbly cheese crust when baked!
9. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beautifully bubbly.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop out portions and enjoy your warm, cheesy hamburger casserole! Perfect for sharing with family or friends!
Deliciousness awaits—enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just cook it in the same way as the ground beef, and you’ll still get a delicious casserole!
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of milk to keep the flavors rich.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be colder from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep the top from burning while warming up!
