This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that will make your family smile. With ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese, it’s comfort food at its best!
It’s so simple to whip up after a long day! Just mix everything in one pot, bake, and you’re ready to enjoy. I love serving it with a salad on the side—perfect for those busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, swap in lentils or a meat substitute like mushrooms or crumbled tempeh.
Pasta: I used egg noodles, but feel free to swap in any pasta you have on hand, such as macaroni or rotini. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be great alternatives.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is delicious, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack can add nice creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use low-fat cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes are in season, use them instead! Just chop them up and use them in the recipe. Low-sodium or homemade sauces can keep things healthier.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Ground Beef?
Browning ground beef well is crucial for flavor! Here are some simple steps to help you nail it:
- Start with a hot skillet—medium heat is perfect. A little oil helps prevent sticking.
- Add the meat in a single layer and let it cook without touching it for a couple of minutes to get a good sear.
- Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Make sure to crumble it evenly so there are no big clumps.
- Drain any excess fat after browning to keep the dish from being greasy.
These techniques will ensure your casserole is packed with flavor and has a great texture! Enjoy!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Cooking oil or spray, for browning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll have a warm, comforting dish on the table in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be ready when your casserole is put in!
2. Cook the Onion and Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little cooking oil. If you’re using onion, throw it in and cook until it’s softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat from the skillet!
3. Mix in the Sauces:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to blend!
4. Combine with Noodles and Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the beef and tomato mixture over the noodles and cheese; then stir it all together until well mixed.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for that gooey, cheesy goodness!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This gives it a chance to set a little. Serve it warm, perhaps with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy hamburger casserole—it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ About Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a leaner option. You can even use plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled firm tofu for a vegetarian version!
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that your tomato sauce and other products you’re using are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it well. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting from a colder temperature.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of tomato sauce or broth to keep it moist.
