This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines juicy ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s like a cozy hug in a meal!
I love how quick it is to make—just mix, bake, and enjoy! This is a great way to get dinner on the table when you’re short on time. Plus, who can resist all that cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Regular ground beef gives great flavor, but you can use lean beef or turkey if you prefer something lighter. I often opt for ground turkey for a healthier twist!
Pasta: Egg noodles are classic for this dish, but feel free to swap them out for any medium pasta like penne or fusilli. They hold the sauce well, too!
Tomato Sauce: Any brand will work, but if you have leftover marinara or a homemade version, use that instead. It adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is fantastic, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and pepper jack for extra pizzazz!
How Do I Ensure My Beef Cooks Evenly?
Cooking the beef properly is key to getting that delicious flavor in your casserole. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet to quickly brown the meat. This locks in juices!
- Break the beef apart constantly while cooking. This helps it brown evenly and cooks without clumping.
- Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry. Aim for a nice brown color, and drain off any extra fat after cooking.
By taking your time here, you’ll set your casserole up for success!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz egg noodles or medium pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that your family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your casserole goes in!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a pot of water and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (cooked but still firm). Drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
3. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you’re using onions, toss them in now and sauté until they’re translucent. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned all over, breaking it up with a spatula. Be sure to drain any excess fat afterward!
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. Give it a good stir every so often to combine all those delicious flavors.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef sauce mixture. Stir until the noodles are well coated. You want every noodle to be packed with flavor!
6. Layer in the Casserole Dish:
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish, then pour half of the noodle-beef mixture into the dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over this layer for that melty goodness.
7. Add the Second Layer:
Top this with the remaining noodle-beef mixture, then sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top. It’s going to be cheesy and wonderful!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Mmm!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will help everything set up a bit. Then, serve it up and enjoy your yummy, cheesy casserole with family and friends!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy hamburger casserole that’s perfect for a family meal!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. It has a milder flavor, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste if preferred!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat alternative. You could also add in extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Just prepare it as directed, but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual!
