This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish that combines ground beef, creamy cheese, and pasta all in one pan. It’s a yummy meal your family will love!
I mean, who can resist cheesy goodness? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love making it on busy nights—just mix, bake, and enjoy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef for less fat, or ground turkey for a lighter version. It still tastes great and often has a milder flavor.
Onion: I recommend using a medium yellow or white onion for sweetness. If you need a substitute, shallots work well or even green onions can add a nice touch!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder works in a pinch. I always say more garlic means more flavor!
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles are standard, feel free to switch to elbow macaroni or any pasta you like. Just cook them according to package directions before adding.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings the cheesy goodness, but you could use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste. My personal favorite is sharp cheddar for that extra kick!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess! If you’re avoiding dairy, consider plain Greek yogurt or omit it entirely for a lighter meal.
What’s the Trick for Perfectly Layering Your Casserole?
Layering your casserole nicely helps all the flavors meld together. Here’s how to ensure you get a great mix:
- Start with the noodle base in a large bowl before folding in the beef mixture.
- Ensure even distribution of meat and noodles, so every bite is flavorful.
- Top with cheese last for that melty, attractive finish. This helps it to brown nicely in the oven!
Always let it cool for a bit before serving; it helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut into portions!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles (about 8 ounces dry)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to make clean-up a breeze later.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Aromatics:
Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes softer and aromatic. Yum!
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, and dried Italian seasoning or basil. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld those fabulous flavors together, then remove it from the heat.
5. Combine with Noodles:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the sour cream (if you’re using it). This adds a delicious creaminess to your casserole. Mix well.
6. Combine Everything:
Now, fold the beef and tomato mixture into the noodles gently until everything is well combined. You want all that gooey goodness to get mixed in!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the noodle and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy covering. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. It’s cheesy, hearty, and sure to be a hit at the dinner table! Enjoy your meal!
This casserole is a perfect cozy dinner option and can even be made in advance. Just reheat before serving for a quick and easy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s browned, just like you would with beef. It will keep the dish light while still delivering great flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of plant-based ground meat, or use sautéed mushrooms and a variety of veggies such as bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add more beans for protein!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a day or two. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for an extra cheesy touch!
